Christmas was a special time for people from all walks of life in the medieval world. It was an opportunity to celebrate and give thanks for a good year, hopefully a good harvest, perhaps a new addition to the family or a new king on the throne. A time to find ways to lift the human spirit above the routine of daily existence. In the medieval … [Read more...]
The Busy Medieval Baker of 1415 In England
Medieval bread has been a source of fascination for me ever since I became interested in medieval recipes. Moreover, I've often wondered what the life of a medieval baker was like. Did they sometimes walk admiringly past a wheatfield at sunset and think ahead to when the freshly harvested grain might be ready for milling? After all, bread was THE … [Read more...]
Saint George: Roman Soldier, Patron Saint, Medieval Dragon Slayer
Being 'born and bred' in England, I grew up with a familiarity of Saint George's Day from early childhood. The subject of Saint George came up at school and would regularly be touched upon in British tv programmes and films. In addition, my dear Dad would remind me every 23rd April of the patron saint of England who, according to legend, slew the … [Read more...]
Romance Of The Medieval Garden
I love medieval history, medieval-themed art, books and gardens. So, when it comes to the idea of "medieval romance", these subjects are for me inextricably intertwined. Let me explain .... A visit to a beautifully designed medieval garden is a unique experience and one to savour and to remember forever; Reading a well-written medieval … [Read more...]
What’s For Dessert For A Medieval Queen?
Perhaps the greatest of medieval Queens was Eleanor of Aquitaine. As Queen of France then Queen of England, Eleanor had an extraordinary life. Mother of 10 children, including two kings (Richard and John), Eleanor was respected throughout Europe for her intellect and intuition. She had a good relationship with the Pope and in her younger days even … [Read more...]
