This is an auction for MISTRESS, MAIDS AND MEN: BARONIAL LIFE IN THE THIRTEENTH CENTURY by Margaret Wade Labarge.

Amazon.com reviews:

"Based mainly on the household roll of Eleanor of Montfort (sister of Henry III and Countess of Leicester) in 1265, this absorbing work offers insights into the aristocracy’s domestic existence during the Medieval period. A wealth of information brings the family’s daily fare and activities alive: what they ate and drank, what they wore, how they amused themselves, and how much this lavishness cost. Additional captivating particulars from a contemporary treatise on etiquette and household management complete the picture of social customs at the time."

"FIVE STARS!!! Simon de Montfort, earl of Leicester and the most powerful nobleman in the kingdom, married Eleanor, sister of Henry III and a formidable woman in her own right. Countess Eleanor, an efficient chattelaine, kept a roll or ledger of household affairs and accounts during 1265 (when she was managing Dover Castle after her husband's death at the battle of Evesham). Even given her special station, Eleanor's surroundings and duties were typical of the upper class of her time and Labarge illuminates and interprets the details of these daily records, to which she adds infor-mation on etiquette and protocol, medical practices, and domestic management to present the conditions and attitudes that underlie the bare facts. A interesting "flesh on the bones" book."

More very favourable reviews on Amazon.com.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Margaret Wade Labarge was educated at Radcliffe College and Oxford University. She was a part-time lecturer in Medieval history at Ottowa University and Carleton University between 1950 and 1962.

Paperback 2003.

235 pages.

Eight pages of illustrations.

Very good condition.

The cost of shipping is $3.95.

There is of course no charge for shipping if you collect this book from my shop in Palmerston North following the auction.

Payment within seven days, please.