Via Strange Company, we are treated to a studied, insider’s look into the profession of a medieval court jester, whose roles were not limited and limned by buffoonery, classified with the broadest of distinctions as “natural” and “licensed” fools—the former being kept creatures by dint of deformity, physical prodigy or mental frankness and the latter being given a wide latitude for critique and commentary. Those enjoying royal office were not only engaged at the pleasure of the monarch for their honed wits and skills but also were frequently charged with discharging household duties and other administrative tasks as well, during times of conflict, were elevated to expendable ombudsmen, though these second-class emissaries were often not received well, giving rise to the phrase, “Don’t shoot the messenger.” We further learn that it was customary for a jester to have in their quiver not only a recognised costume and signature schickt but also a trademark wooden sceptre, a marotte, carved with their trademark visage (see previously, see also). More from Just History Posts and Strange Company at the links above.
synchronoptica
one year ago: assorted links worth revisiting (with synchronoptica) plus redacted Ewoks
seven years ago: RIP Carl Kasell, Banksy’s Bethlehem hotel, crypto markets, artist Yuge Zhou plus the meaning of Japanese emoji
eight years ago: meals-ready-to-eat from militaries around the world plus more adult beverages of France mapped
nine years ago: campaigning against female circumcision plus a board game exploring race and privilege
twevle years ago: coded instructions for a deadly toxin plus Germany’s Energiewende
