How did the structure of medieval families in southern Europe differ from the northern model?

Answer 1

In southern Europe, medieval families often operated under a more collective and extended family model, with multiple generations living together and sharing resources. This structure was influenced by agrarian lifestyles and the importance of land inheritance, leading to practices like primogeniture. In contrast, northern European families tended to be more nuclear, focusing on smaller family units, which allowed for greater mobility and individual autonomy. These differing structures were shaped by economic, social, and cultural factors prevalent in each region.