Legal Definitions - brocarius

A brocarius is a historical legal term referring to an individual who acted as an intermediary or middleman in transactions, facilitating agreements between a buyer and a seller. This role involved connecting parties, negotiating terms, and helping to finalize deals, often for a fee or commission.

• Example 1: Land Transaction
  In 14th-century England, Lord Ashworth wished to sell a small manor to Sir Reginald. A local individual, known as a brocarius, knew both parties and understood their needs. He helped negotiate the price, terms, and facilitated the transfer of documents, ensuring both Lord Ashworth received fair payment and Sir Reginald acquired the property he desired.

  This illustrates a brocarius acting as a middleman in a significant property transaction, bridging the gap between a seller (Lord Ashworth) and a buyer (Sir Reginald).

• Example 2: Commodity Trade
  During the medieval period, a merchant arriving at a bustling port with a ship full of imported silks needed to find buyers among the local tailors and wealthy citizens. A brocarius, familiar with the local market and its demands, would connect the merchant directly with potential purchasers, often for a small commission, thereby speeding up the sale of the goods.

  Here, the brocarius acts as an intermediary in the trade of goods, linking a seller of commodities (the merchant) with various buyers in a new market.

• Example 3: Livestock Deal
  Imagine a farmer in the 12th century who needed to sell a herd of cattle but lacked the time to travel to distant markets. A local brocarius, known for his connections within the agricultural community, would find interested buyers from neighboring villages or estates, arrange viewing times, and assist in setting a mutually agreeable price, earning a fee for his services.

  This example shows the brocarius facilitating the sale of livestock, acting as the crucial link between a farmer (seller) and other farmers or landowners (buyers).