German Society at the Close of the Middle Ages

"German Society at the Close of the Middle Ages" by Ernest Belfort Bax is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book aims to provide an overview of the social conditions and popular movements in Germany during the Reformation, with a particular focus on the revolutionary movements that foreshadowed the Peasants' War. The author delves into the intricate social hierarchies and economic tensions of the time, illustrating how they contributed to uprisings against prevailing feudal structures. The opening of the work outlines the historical context at the close of the 15th century, depicting a society seemingly stable but on the brink of significant change. It highlights the rigid feudal structure and emerging discontent, particularly among peasants and townspeople who were increasingly restless amid economic struggles and oppressive governance. Key events such as the rise of prophetic figures and early movements like the pilgrimage to Niklashausen serve as precursors to later widespread revolts. Bax sets the stage for exploring how the conditions of this era fostered a burgeoning desire for equality and justice among the common people, illustrating the fusion of economic grievance and social ambition that characterized the lead-up to the Reformation.