14th-century England

Definition

14th-century England refers to the period in English history from 1301 to 1400, marked by significant social, political, and economic changes, as well as cultural developments influenced by events such as the Black Death and the Hundred Years' War. This era saw the emergence of a growing middle class and changing attitudes towards religion and individuality, which are reflected in literary works of the time, including The Book of Margery Kempe.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Black Death arrived in England in 1348, drastically reducing the population and altering labor dynamics, leading to increased wages for workers.
2. The Peasants' Revolt of 1381 was a significant uprising against oppressive taxes and feudal practices, reflecting the growing discontent among the lower classes.
3. The Hundred Years' War began in 1337 between England and France, influencing national identity and military developments during this century.
4. Cultural productions flourished during this period, with literature beginning to reflect individual experiences and inner lives, as seen in The Book of Margery Kempe.
5. The period also marked the rise of Parliament's power, which began to assert more influence over governance as the monarchy faced challenges from both nobility and commoners.

Review Questions

• How did the Black Death impact social structures in 14th-century England?
  • The Black Death had a profound impact on social structures in 14th-century England by drastically reducing the population, which led to labor shortages. As a result, workers found themselves in higher demand and could negotiate better wages and working conditions. This shift challenged the traditional feudal system and contributed to the emergence of a growing middle class, altering the dynamics between different social classes.
• In what ways did literature from 14th-century England reflect changing attitudes towards individuality and religion?
  • Literature from 14th-century England began to reflect changing attitudes towards individuality and personal spirituality through works like The Book of Margery Kempe. This text illustrates an increasing focus on personal experience and emotional depth in religious practice. Margery's journey showcases her struggles with societal expectations while seeking a direct relationship with God, highlighting a shift from collective religious expression to more individualized faith.
• Evaluate how the events of 14th-century England laid the groundwork for future social and political changes in subsequent centuries.
  • The events of 14th-century England significantly laid the groundwork for future social and political changes by challenging existing hierarchies and traditional power structures. The aftermath of the Black Death led to labor reforms and a questioning of feudal obligations, while movements like Lollardy began advocating for reform within the church. Additionally, increasing parliamentary power during this century set precedents for greater representation and governance, contributing to evolving notions of democracy that would shape English society in later centuries.

Related terms

Black Death:

A devastating pandemic that swept through Europe in the mid-14th century, killing an estimated one-third of the population and leading to profound social and economic changes.

Feudalism:

The dominant social system in medieval England where land was held in exchange for service, creating a hierarchy of lords, vassals, and serfs.

Lollardy:

A religious reform movement in late medieval England that emerged in the wake of John Wycliffe's teachings, advocating for translation of the Bible into English and critiquing church practices.