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5 (a) Describe two features of life in medieval towns - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 5 - 2018 - Paper 2
Question 5
5 (a) Describe two features of life in medieval towns. (b) Explain why the Interdict had such an impact on ordinary people's lives. You may use the following in yo... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:5 (a) Describe two features of life in medieval towns - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 5 - 2018 - Paper 2
Step 1
Describe two features of life in medieval towns.
Answer
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Occupational Diversity: In medieval towns, people were employed in a variety of occupations, which included builders, blacksmiths, shopkeepers, and innkeepers. This diversity contributed to a bustling economy and a rich tapestry of community life.
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Living Conditions: Towns were often crowded, leading to unsanitary conditions. Sewage systems were rudimentary at best, causing diseases to spread easily. However, despite these challenges, towns were generally considered safe due to strong walls, which provided a sense of security to their inhabitants.
Step 2
Explain why the Interdict had such an impact on ordinary people's lives.
Answer
The Interdict was a significant religious censure that prohibited the performing of sacraments, which deeply affected the everyday lives of ordinary people.
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Burials: Without the ability to perform religious ceremonies, proper burials could not take place. This not only caused distress among the grieving families but also disrupted long-held customs and traditions surrounding death, leaving many feeling spiritually unfulfilled and unsettled.
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Holy Days: The Interdict halted public worship and the celebration of holy days. This diminished the community's sense of unity and spirituality, as communal gatherings for festivities and religious observances were central to medieval life.
Overall, the Interdict stripped ordinary people of essential religious practices that were integral to their cultural identity and social cohesion.