Fêtes et divertissements en occident durant le haut moyen âge
Jean Verdon
The author is trying to deepen our knowledge of medieval society through a study its festivals and entertainments. In the middle ages, as in ancient times, good physical condition was sought after. Various sports were practised hunting highly valued, be it with hounds or hawking. After tiring exercise, people liked relax dine well. One major occupations upper class men ages consisted feasting, but their preoccupations sometimes more cultural nature. Their banquets provided means for many share pleasures civilisation. Merovingian Carolingian times spectacular entertainments not valued so they had been Roman singing dancing enjoyed. People much appreciated jugglers played dice.Though Christianity triumphed, traces paganism still persisted. Pagan unusual at beginning even though prohibited by Church. Nevertheless, religious feasts established Church celebrated great solemnity climax life.
Journal of Medieval History