History Extra Podcast: "Medieval Make Do and Mend" Summary
Release Date: November 14, 2024
Host: Lauren Good
Guest: Annetta Kanell, University of Mannheim
Book Discussed: The Green Medieval Innovations in Sustainability by Annetta Kanell
Introduction
In the "Medieval Make Do and Mend" episode of the History Extra Podcast, host Lauren Good engages in an enlightening conversation with Annetta Kanell, exploring the intricate relationship between medieval societies and sustainability. Drawing insights from Kanell's book, The Green Medieval Innovations in Sustainability, the discussion delves into how medieval practices surrounding waste, recycling, and sustainability offer valuable lessons for today's environmental challenges.
Medieval Attitudes Toward Waste and Sustainability
Lauren Good opens the discourse by highlighting a surprising revelation from Kanell's research: the modern concept of "waste" did not appear in European dictionaries until the 20th century. This absence underscores a fundamental shift in societal attitudes toward consumption and disposal.
Annetta Kanell elaborates, stating, “It's almost impossible to think of society that is so irrational to produce so much waste as we do” (04:35). She contrasts the post-World War II era's surge in mass production and disposable goods with medieval practices, where sustainability was inherently embedded in daily life.
Medieval Recycling and Repair Professions
A significant portion of the conversation centers on the robust repair and recycling industries of the medieval period. Unlike today’s disposable culture, medieval societies thrived on repairing and reusing goods, ensuring longevity and minimizing waste.
Kanell points out, “Making a living with recycling, we are on the way to that, but that's the main thing. And it also means that producing new things must become really expensive again” (04:35). She discusses the prevalence of repairmen in cities like Frankfurt, where professions dedicated to mending shoes, sharpening knives, and repairing household items were not marginal but integral to the economy.
Medieval Secondhand Markets and Economic Tensions
Kanell and Good explore the dynamics of secondhand markets in medieval cities, particularly focusing on Frankfurt. The competition between new goods sellers and repair professionals created a nuanced economic landscape.
Good asks about the restrictions placed on repair and secondhand goods sellers, to which Kanell responds, “There is a constant process of negotiating. It's not like one law and then you decide how things have to be… restrictions, regulations, tax regulations and also price settings” (08:57). This balance ensured that both new and repaired goods coexisted, fostering a sustainable economic environment.
Reuse of Materials in Medieval Construction
The discussion transitions to the architectural practices of the medieval era, specifically the reuse of building materials, known as spolia. This practice involved repurposing materials from ancient ruins to construct new buildings, reflecting both practicality and reverence for historical artifacts.
Kanell illustrates with the throne of Charlemagne in Aachen, “You can clearly see… it's a second or third-hand usage of maybe an antique bathroom or maybe in a saloon” (14:00). This example underscores how recycled materials carried historical significance, enhancing the legitimacy and power of medieval rulers.
Evolution of Paper Making from Recycling
A fascinating segment of the podcast examines the transformation of paper production from medieval times to the present. Originally, paper was made from recycled cloth and natural fibers, facilitating widespread literacy and record-keeping.
Kanell narrates, “It was invented… using and reusing cloth that is no longer in use or cotton or other sort of fibers… until around 1800” (17:41). The shift to wood-based paper in the 18th century marked a significant change, driven by increased demand and regulated access to traditional raw materials. This evolution highlights the enduring importance of sustainable practices in resource management.
Reflections on Medieval Concepts Applied to Modern Sustainability
In the concluding segment, Kanell reflects on how medieval ancestors might perceive today’s sustainability issues. She believes they would admire modern advancements yet caution against neglecting sustainable practices.
Kanell muses, “You have so much, you reached so much… why are you worried now?… use your technology, use your political means… look to the future and trust in your power to change the world” (21:47). Her insights advocate for a balanced approach that leverages modern innovations while embracing the sustainability ethos of the past.
Conclusion
The "Medieval Make Do and Mend" episode offers a compelling exploration of how medieval societies approached sustainability, recycling, and waste management. Annetta Kanell's research sheds light on the sophisticated systems that supported sustainable living long before modern environmental movements. By understanding these historical practices, listeners are encouraged to rethink contemporary strategies for achieving sustainability, emphasizing the timeless value of resourcefulness and community-oriented solutions.
For further exploration, listeners are directed to check out Annetta Kanell's book, The Green Medieval Innovations in Sustainability, and other related episodes featuring historians like Eleanor Barnett.
Notable Quotes:
- Annetta Kanell (04:35): “It's almost impossible to think of society that is so irrational to produce so much waste as we do.”
- Annetta Kanell (08:57): “There is a constant process of negotiating… restrictions, regulations, tax regulations and also price settings.”
- Annetta Kanell (14:00): “You can clearly see… it's a second or third-hand usage of maybe an antique bathroom or maybe in a saloon.”
- Annetta Kanell (17:41): “It was invented… using and reusing cloth that is no longer in use or cotton or other sort of fibers… until around 1800.”
- Annetta Kanell (21:47): “Use your technology, use your political means… look to the future and trust in your power to change the world.”
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