Conflict and Revolt: The Bishop of Ely and his Peasants at the Manor of Brandon in Suffolk c. 1300-81

Abstract

<jats:title>Abstract</jats:title><jats:p>Using the evidence of manorial court records, this paper examines in detail the developments in the relationship between the Bishop of Ely and his peasants at the manor of Brandon leading up to the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381. Increasing levels of discontent among the peasantry can be observed across the period. This is expressed in rising reported numbers of various cases in the court rolls, such as non-compliance with the court, labour refusals, trespasses and cases of foot-dragging. This rising level of conflict, some open, some more hidden, can be seen as evidence both for increasing seigniorial concern to assert various jurisdictional rights, and the peasants’ increasing willingness to test the boundaries of seigniorial dominion, leading eventually to their participation in the Rising in East Anglia.</jats:p>

Review of periodical literature published in 2012

“…Müller ( Rural History ) stresses a rising level of discontent among the peasants of Brandon in Suffolk after the Black Death, as indicated by cases in the manorial court of petty recalcitrance, concealment, and non‐compliance. The Bishop of Ely attempted to re‐assert his seigneurial rights after 1349, but this was resisted and subject to counter‐demands from tenants.…”

“…The Bishop of Ely attempted to re‐assert his seigneurial rights after 1349, but this was resisted and subject to counter‐demands from tenants. Müller thus regards the lord–peasant relationship in Brandon as shaped by a feudal reaction, which may have laid the roots for the 1381 revolt when a number of Brandon inhabitants took part. Elsewhere, Müller ( Viator ) explores the role of fire and arson in medieval communities, particularly as public demonstrations of discontent and protest.…”