Medieval Entertainment

     Have you ever wondered what people did in the Middle Ages to have fun and keep themselves busy?--What life was like without TVs, VCRs, DVD players, computer games and the Internet?  If you have pondered questions such as these, read on to find out all about Medieval entertainment.

     People in Medieval times not only worked and fought hard, but they played hard as well.  Just like the people of today, the people of the Medieval period also liked to relax, unwind, and take a break from the rigors and pressures of daily life.  There were several ways in which the Medieval people entertained themselves, some of which are still popular today.

Feasts

     One type of Medieval entertainment was the feast.  These gatherings were usually held to celebrate holidays or special occasions.  All of the lords and ladies of the kingdom gathered together either within the walls of a neighboring castle or a sunny, flower-filled courtyard to eat and share one another's company.  Music, dancing, and gift exchanges also took place at these events. 

• Modern day comparison: Wedding Reception

• To learn more about Medieval feasts, go to: A Boke of Gode Cookery.

Tournaments

     Another type of entertainment was the tournament.  A tournament was a type of sporting event that was held in a large arena-like area.  The purpose of the tournament was for the knights to practice their fighting skills, such as jousting.  The people of the kingdom gathered to watch these competitions and cheered on their favorite warrior.

• Modern day comparison: Football, baseball, or basketball game

• To learn more about Medieval tournaments, visit History of Jousting.

Games

     Games of many types were other ways in which people entertained themselves in the Middle Ages.  Games of skill, such as archery and board games were popular during this period.  Variations of these games are still played today. 

• Modern day comparison: Paint ball, Risk

• To see the types of games that were played (and their rules) during this period, go to:  Medieval Games.

Music

     Music was not only a form of entertainment, but an important part of society as well.  There were musicians playing instruments and minstrels singing within the castle walls for the pleasure of all of the lords and ladies.

• Modern day comparison: Attending a concert, listening to a stereo

• If you would like to learn more about the music of the Medieval period, visit Medieval Music Links.

Performing Artists

     The last type of entertainment that will be discussed on this web site is that of the performing artist.  Jesters, acrobats, tumblers, and contortionists used their talents to amaze the inhabitants of the kingdom.

• Modern day comparison: Circus, comedy club

• If you wish to learn more about Medieval entertainment, go to: Medieval World.