The Continuity of Feudal Power
The Continuity of Feudal Power
AUD$59.95
inc GSTThe Continuity of Feudal Power is an analytic study of a family of the Neapolitan aristocracy during the early modern period, with particular focus on the time of Spanish rule (1503–1707). The Caracciolo marquis of Brienza were a branch of one of the oldest and most powerful clans in the kingdom of Naples, and they numbered among the hundred wealthiest feudal families throughout the early modern period. Professor Astarita reconstructs the family's patrimony, administration and revenues, the family's relationship with the rural communities over which it had jurisdiction, its marriage and alliance policies, and the relations between the aristocracy and the monarchical government. His emphasis is on the continuing importance of feudal traditions, institutions and values both in the definition of the aristocracy's status and in its success in ensuring the persistence of its wealth and power within the kingdom.
- The first social history of Naples under Spanish rule
- Uses a detailed study of the Caracciolo Marquis of Brienza to examine the lives of the aristocracy and their maintenance of power for three centuries
Product details
June 2002Paperback
9780521893169
296 pages
229 × 152 × 19 mm
0.45kg
6 b/w illus.
Available
Table of Contents
- Acknowledgements
- Note on abbreviations and measurements
- List of tables, figures and maps
- List of illustrations
- Introduction
- 1. The Caracciolo di Brienza
- 2. Structure and evolution of an aristocratic patrimony
- 3. The management of an aristocratic landed patrimony
- 4. The feudal lord and his vassals: between traditional paternalism and change
- 5. Aristocratic strategies for the preservation of family wealth
- 6. Offices, courts and taxes, the aristocracy and the Spanish rule
- Conclusion
- Glossary
- Appendix on sources
- Bibliography.
