The City. From Medieval to Modern

Spring Term 2002

Study Questions

1/29 Tuesday Friedrichs, The Early Modern City, "Introduction," pp. 3—15.

What are some of the characteristics of the early modern city which Friedrichs found in Munich and Southwark? Are any of these significantly different from what we would expect to find in a modern American city? How would you explain differences?

Friedrichs specifically rejects the framework of modernization as suitable for the study of the city. What does he mean by this? Why does he feel this is not an appropriate approach?

What kinds of changes occurred in European urban life in the early modern period according to Friedrichs. How does he compare these with changes occurring either before or after our period?

What are the major differences between theconditions of life in the early modern city and in the modern city with which we are familiar?

Friedrichs uses the terms "community" and "power" to define competing approaches to inequality and hierarchy in the city. Explain the difference.

What are some of the ways in which city dwellers divide themselves? How would your description of a city vary with each category?

What does Friedrichs mean by distinguishing between a "way of life" and a "way of living"? Does his observation still apply in today's city?