This paper examines the shifting work patterns in ancient Greece, Rome, and London during the 12th and 13th centuries. It explores gender roles and slave labor in Greek society, the influence of the Crusades on Rome, and the Norman Conquest's effect on English commerce and culture. The paper surveys the wide range of medieval occupations available, highlights professions that rose or fell in status and earning potential, and traces the early origins of banking and the concept of "interest" — a term that persists in accounting practice to this day.
Much can be learned about the history of accounting by studying ancient civilizations. Examining the shifting work patterns in Greece, Rome, and London during the 12th and 13th centuries offers a valuable window into these cultures and their economic development.
In the 12th and 13th centuries, ancient Greek men ran the government and spent a great deal of their time away from home. When not involved in politics, they spent time in the fields — overseeing or working the crops — as well as sailing, hunting, manufacturing, or engaging in trade.
Most Greek women were not permitted much freedom outside their homes; however, within the home, they held authority. The primary role of a woman was to run the household and bear children. Most Greek women did not perform housework themselves, but instead relied on slaves to carry out domestic duties.
Female slaves were responsible for cooking, cleaning, and working in the fields. Male slaves were charged with guarding the door — ensuring no one entered when the man of the house was away, except for female neighbors — and also served as tutors to the young male children of the household.
In the 12th and 13th centuries, Rome was deeply involved in the Crusades, which have been called "the first Renaissance." Like the World Wars did for 20th-century civilization, the Crusades allowed one part of the population to learn more about what other parts were doing, thinking, and hoping for.
The Norman Conquest in the late 11th century was responsible for awakening and uniting England, and introduced the country to what the Continent had to offer in the way of science and art. By the 12th century, astronomy had become an accepted and noble profession.
During the 12th and 13th centuries, medieval London citizens found employment as streetsweepers, fishmongers, grocers, and haberdashers. Several of the city's streets were named after the particular trade practiced there. For example, Threadneedle Street was the tailor's district, Bread Street was home to bakeries, and on Milk Street, cows were kept for milking. There was also a very active livestock market at Smithfield.
"New era of arts, science, and governance"
"Wide occupational range and labor shifts"
"Origins of moneylending and interest"
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