| Women Warriors
We reveal how the near-constant state of war in medieval Europe during the centuries of the crusades stretched and eroded the strict roles normally applied to society during peaceful times. Wars took men away from their homes and lands for years, decades, sometimes forever. Women and children left behind not only kept day-to-day life running in their villages, farms and cities, but defended their homes and livelihoods when threats arose.
The Canterbury Tales
"The Canterbury Tales" is not only an example of Chaucer's excellent storytelling; it is a portrait of the social complexities of the late fourteenth century. You can practically feel the tension betweenthe pilgrims as the friendly storytelling contest quickly devolves into an exercise in verbal warfare between and within the classes. We take a fresh look at the everyday social clashes in the Middle Ages as revealed by these timeless tales.
Gruel
Have you had a bowl of delicious gruel recently? In the modern era gruel has been a victim of bad public relations. The simple preparation pf a cereal grain such as millet, wheat, or barley boiled in water or milk was a staple food in both wealthy and poor households alike.
Kilts
There is no more recognizable symbol of Scotland than a man in a kilt. If you wish to celebrate your Scottish heritage at the next Renaissance festival you attend, a kilt is the obvious choice, and we all know the ladies love a man in a kilt! We reveal how to put your kilt ensemble together with an eye towards authenticity.
New Feature! The Renaissance Herbalist
Fennel has an ancient history of culinary and medicinal use. It was used to aid digestion, prevent flatulence, and cure hiccups. We'll show you how to grow and use this power-packed herb.
Opium
Opium's fame spread with returning Crusaders who described the ecstasies and visions which the rare potions of the East could bring. Opium's high price and danger only added to its allure.
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