session grouped by Graham Loud (19/11/03):
Abstract paper -a:
The paper does not merely summarize the contributions on the origin and nature of the High Medieval district of Maritima, but it advances the hypothesis that it had been founded by Byzantines in the late 6th century. Despite the scarcity of sources, which characterizes the High Middle Age, it has been possible to outline the territory of Byzantine Maritima. Initially, this research provides a list of localities in finibus Maritima and explains the meaning that the term fines had in the High Middle documentary materials. Then, based on this contribution, it has been possible to formulate a valid hypothesis of the Byzantine origin of Maritima.
Abstract paper -b:
I propose to study the external bourgeoisie (i.e. persons living in the countryside but enjoying the status of a burgher) from the 13th to the mid 14th century in the Rhine valley, Germany. This phenomenon that was typical to many parts of Europe got its' clearest form in the Rhine valley. External bourgeoisie was repeatedly banned in the legislation but the continuing offences against the ban indicate the power of the towns. The phenomenon widens both the term burgher and the town society. Their status as burghers living in the countryside gives interesting viewpoints to the relations between burghers and nobles.
Abstract paper -c:
The proposal alludes to Chris Wickham's study of the Tuscan Appenines in the early middle ages. Wickham glanced briefly ahead to compare his mountain world with the Garfagnana of later centuries. My paper will explore some of the ideas put forward, focusing on the upper valley of the Jericho in the 15th century with special reference to the territories of Gallicano and Casoli Oltre Giogo. It will test the current views of mountain civilisation and mountain economies, particularly the thesis of a growing economic integration against a background of increased cultural alienation.
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