Beer in the Middle Ages

Richard Unger – a historian specializing in medieval studies, a professor at the University of British Columbia in Canada.

The book "Beer in the Middle Ages" is dedicated to the history and development of brewing in medieval and Renaissance Europe. In an era of fierce wars and crusades, beer was a part of everyday life and a drink for people of all ages and social groups: it was consumed almost at any time of day and night. In the early modern period, the frothy drink, which was initially brewed at home, became an export commodity and came under state protection. European kings and lords tried in every way to control the beer trade, while ordinary people sought to earn a living from the brewing and sale of the intoxicating beverage. Surprisingly, monasteries played a significant role in the establishment of medieval brewing: thanks to the use of quality equipment, unavailable to the poor inhabitants of villages and towns, the monks were able to significantly develop the brewing industry. It is no coincidence that St. Patrick, the evangelizer of Ireland, had a personal priest-brewer.

This publication will be of interest to historians, cultural scholars, as well as a wide range of readers interested in the Middle Ages.