Bourgeoisie Term Analysis

The word “bourgeoisie” means “middle class.” The term itself comes from medieval France where it was used from the 11th century on to describe people who were enriching themselves as the urban centers (“bourgs”) were increasing in power and wealth. The medieval bourgeoisie was made up of merchants, tradesmen, bankers, and artisans. It’s important to note that the negative connotations that are sometimes attached to “bourgeoisie” in the 20th and 21st centuries arose from the 19th century philosophy of Karl Marx and communism and should not be applied to medieval texts.