Medieval Riverscapes: Environment and Memory in Northwest Europe, c. 300–1100

In Northwestern Europe, from the early centuries to the dawn of the second millennium, rivers shaped not only the landscape but also the lives and beliefs of those who inhabited the region. Ellen F. Arnold explores this intricate relationship, focusing on how rivers served as vital lifelines for communities of fishermen, monastic orders, and even mythic beings. Through the lens of environment and memory, she uncovers how these waterways influenced social structures, economic practices, and spiritual narratives, weaving their way through the fabric of medieval life.

The author delves into the interplay between nature and culture, revealing how riverscapes functioned as sites of both sustenance and symbolism. By examining historical accounts and archaeological evidence, Arnold paints a vivid portrait of a world where waterways were central to human experience. This exploration not only sheds light on the ecological dynamics of the time but also emphasizes the lasting impact of these environments on collective memory and identity in medieval Europe.