Aspects of Maltese society before and after the siege of 1565 : a study of the acts of notary Angelo Bartolo, 1563-67

Abstract

This dissertation is divided in four chapters. The first chapter focuses on Europe, the Mediterranean and Malta during the sixteenth century, particularly the 1560s. Highlight events include the Reformation and the Counter-Reformation, the struggle between Christianity and Islam in the Mediterranean and the Siege of 1565. Following this, a discussion is established on the importance of notaries and the notarial register for History research with an emphasis on the notary Angelo Bartolo. Chapter 2 attempts to show the social stratification of Maltese society and the interaction between its classes such as the nobility and members of the municipality in Mdina, the clergy the medical sector, notaries, merchants, peasants, slaves and futhermore the role of women. Chapter 3 presents a discussion on the beliefs and views of Maltese society at that time, centering on the perception of death and the concept of time. Cultural aspects and traditions including woman’s dowry, fashion, the Maltese house and language are also included. The final chapter deals with agriculture, covering important aspects such as the importance of land and its produce. It will also present points on the raising of livestock as being a source of food and an aid in transport and ploughing. This chapter will also briefly mention trade, to include both cereals and textiles.