Source 7c: Will of a woman who has an apprentice

This is a will from a woman in 1349 who has an apprentice. It is printed in R.R. Sharpe, Wills enrolled in the Court of Hustings London I (London, 1899), p. 106]. The original is in the London Metropolitan Archives Catalogue ref: CLA/023/DW/01/076

Transcript

Myms (Matilda de).—to be buried in the church of St Mildred in the Poultry. To William her apprentice the third best part (tertiam partem meliorem) of copies and instruments appertaining to [used in] the making of pictures [paintings], and one of her best chests for keeping them in; the said apprentice to be delivered over to the care and teaching of Brother Thomas de Alsham of the priory and convent of Bermondsey [Bermondeseye] for a term of three years. Her brewery near the chapel in Conynghoplane to be sold, and the proceeds given to chantries [priests singing masses] for the souls of the testatrix [the woman who made this will], John de Myms, her husband, and others. Dated IV. Nones April [10 April], A.D. 1349. Roll 76 (313).

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Task 7 – Women in urban areas

  • What kind of work did Matilda do?
  • What does this will show about the roles of medieval women in the towns?
  • What kind of equipment do you think she is leaving her apprentice William?
  • Who is going to take over William’s training? For how long?
  • Does this will reveal anything about the character of Matilda?
  • What do the terms of Matilda’s will also reveal about medieval society?