Traces the life of a typical merchant in medieval times from birth to death, including childhood, marriage, becoming a successful merchant, and customs. Includes primary source quotes.

Includes index.

First days -- House and home -- Growing up -- School -- Becoming a merchant -- Marriage -- The wool trade -- Travel and communication -- War and piracy -- Secrets of success -- Branching out -- Wealth and property -- The merchant's wife -- Good works -- Health and diet -- The end.