Growing Old in the Middle Ages: 'Winter Clothes Us in Shadow and Pain'

Growing Old in the Middle Agesdraws a comprehensive picture of medieval old age, describing how it was perceived by different groups in society; what help was given to the ageing; the desire to increase longevity; the consolation offered to the elderly; and the growing concern with physiology. With the increased interest in old age as a subject for historical study, this timely overview is an invaluable contribution to the social history of the whole of medieval Europe.

Shulamith Shahar is Professor Emeritus of Medieval History at Tel-Aviv University