This authoritative reference provides a spirited look at a slice of history rarely discussed. High-born and low-, women workers abounded in Medieval Europe-they apprenticed to trades, were licensed by cities and states, and identified themselves by the work they did (as surnames like "Webster" and "Brewster" attest to this day). Organized by profession, the book uses original documents and art to explore the many trades women engaged in at this time, the rewards they attained by their labor, and the dangers they faced.