Paradoxes of Inequality in Renaissance Italy

This Element explores the longest spell that can be computed from quantifiable fiscal records when the gap between rich and poor narrowed. It was the post-Black-Death century c. 1375 to c. 1475. Paradoxically with economic equality and prosperity on the rise peasants artisans and shopkeepers suffered losses in political representation and status within cultural spheres. Threatened by growing economic equality after the Black Death elites preserved and then enhanced their political social and cultural distinction predominantly through noneconomic means and within political and cultural spheres. By investigating the interactions between three ''elements''-economics politics and culture-this Element presents new facets in the emergence of early Renaissance society in Italy.