Although mortality was clearly a greater factor than today, there is something strangely appealing about the hardship of this lifestyle. I guess they would cherish day to day life more, and the black and white simplicity and consequence that we do not experience these days. You don't get a chance to suffer boredom and drudgery when every choice you make could cost your life or the entire village. Fascinating.
Stephen Hill, as stated, much of the population died in infancy or childhood. Infectious diseases is the most likely cause. Most children and a quarter of adults were anemic. Most adults had arthritis and very bad teeth. Not all that idyllic.
Stephen Hill, yes but, no medicine, and also that bread wore away your teeth because of the stone preparation, no dentist either. But, regardless, it did make life worth more.
Im currently writing a book about the britons during the roman occupation. For someone who has never farmed this has been really helpful for my discription of village life so thank you buddy. One question, was barley a crop back then? I always thought that a type of porridge was the norm? Please correct me if im wrong.
we have a much greater understanding in the last few year. Some of it comes from an increase in artifacts which help understanding of daily tasks and skills.
There would have been a cull at the end of the autumn, leaving the breeding animals to be looked after over winter. There is some evidence of possible hay stacks, dry grass, used as fodder to feed the larger animals. Winter pastures were close to the farm. All animals would live out of doors all year round, unlike modern farming.
Having milked both cows and goats, I doubt 5 year olds milking cows. Those teats are hard and rubbery, and build up tremendous muscles. Goats would be much easier, softer teats and smaller sized.
The Romans experimented with water driven grinding, but did not want to put slaves out of work, so hand grinding continued in homes, and ass driven grinding in bakeries. Checkout the evidence in Pompeii.
