How did the economy of central Europe differ from that of western Europe?

The economy of central Europe was characterized by a more rigid social structure compared to western Europe, particularly regarding the status and mobility of serfs. Serfs in central Europe typically had restricted rights and faced significant barriers to movement, which limited their opportunities to leave the rural economy and move to urban areas. Unlike in some parts of western Europe, where urbanization allowed serfs to become part of the burgeoning middle class, central European serfs remained largely tied to the land, unable to shift into more economically dynamic roles in cities.

This lack of movement contributed to a less diversified economy in central Europe, as many individuals were unable to engage in commerce or industrial activities that were becoming more prevalent in western Europe. Therefore, the correct understanding of how central Europe's economy differed from that of western Europe lies in recognizing the constraints on serf mobility and urbanization in central Europe, which prevented serfs from becoming part of the middle class and contributing to a more dynamic economic landscape.