Gone Medieval: Episode Summary - "Midwinter Medieval Traditions"

Released on December 31, 2024

Introduction

In the episode titled "Midwinter Medieval Traditions," hosts Matt Lewis and Dr. Eleanor Jaenega delve into the fascinating and often surprising Christmas customs of the medieval period. They juxtapose these age-old traditions with contemporary celebrations, highlighting both continuities and stark differences. This exploration offers listeners a vivid portrayal of how medieval societies marked the festive season, emphasizing aspects ranging from religious observances to communal festivities.

Advent and Its Contrasting Nature

Dr. Eleanor Jaenega opens the discussion by contrasting modern Christmas traditions with their medieval counterparts. While today’s festivities are often centered around joy and merriment, medieval Advent was a period of stern reflection and anticipation.

Dr. Eleanor Jaenega (03:26): "Advent's the time of year you contemplate the end of the universe... Advent is when you sit around and think about the fact that the world is going to end."

In medieval times, Advent was not associated with the light-hearted anticipation we experience today but was instead a somber period of fasting and contemplation, preparing for the birth of Christ and the promise of salvation.

Epiphany and Twelfth Night Traditions

The conversation transitions to the significance of Epiphany, marking the conclusion of the twelve days of Christmas. Epiphany commemorates the visit of the Magi to the newborn Jesus, a period rich with unique traditions.

Dr. Eleanor Jaenega (06:22): "This was ordered for the revel on the last night for court in England... this is where we get the tradition of gift giving at Christmas."

Epiphany introduced the custom of gift-giving, inspired by the Magi's offerings of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. In countries like Spain, Epiphany remains the primary gift-giving occasion, overshadowing Christmas Day. Additionally, variations in Eastern Orthodox traditions are discussed, where Epiphany is associated with the Baptism of Jesus and celebrated on January 19th, reflecting the diverse practices within Christianity.

Women's Christmas: A Medieval-Inspired Celebration

Dr. Jaenega introduces the concept of "Women's Christmas," a tradition particularly prominent in Irish culture. Originally intended to invert traditional gender roles during the festive period, this day allowed women a respite from household duties, with men taking over chores or participating in social gatherings.

Dr. Eleanor Jaenega (09:09): "Because I'm worth it. That's the answer."

In contemporary times, Women's Christmas often manifests as social events where women engage in communal activities like pub gatherings, celebrating their contributions and enjoying a day of relaxation.

Mallard Night at All Souls College

One of the episode's highlights is the quirky tradition of Mallard Night at All Souls College, Oxford. Established in 1437, this ritual commemorates the college's founding legend involving the discovery of a mallard in a drain by Archbishop Henry Chichley.

Matt Lewis (14:23): "Who are we to question some of the finest minds in Britain and what they do in their spare time over Christmas?"

Originally involving the pursuit of a live mallard, the tradition has evolved to feature a wooden carving of a mallard chased around the college quad. Participants carry a designated "Lord Mallard" in a sedan chair, culminating in a festive parade accompanied by a specially composed song celebrating the mallard.

Medieval Football: A Chaotic Precursor to Modern Sports

The hosts explore the tumultuous nature of medieval football, which starkly contrasts with today's organized and regulated sports. Medieval football was a highly violent and chaotic affair, often resulting in injuries and even fatalities.

Matt Lewis (18:22): "Medieval football is basically a middle age equivalent of the Purge."

Played primarily during religious festivals like Shrovetide or Pentecost, these matches saw townsfolk engaging in intense physical confrontations under the guise of a game. Over centuries, efforts by monarchs to regulate or ban the sport gradually transformed it into the more structured football we recognize today.

The Yule Log: Symbolism and Tradition

The Yule log, another enduring tradition, is examined for its deep-rooted significance in medieval winter celebrations. Originating from Northern Europe and influenced by pagan customs, the Yule log symbolized continuity, warmth, and protection.

Matt Lewis (30:52): "Dragging a tree into the house and then go punch their neighbor and then go, hmm, very interesting."

Medieval households would bring a large log into their homes, setting it ablaze to provide warmth throughout the winter. Portions of the Yule log were preserved to ignite the next year's fire, embodying the cycle of life and the anticipation of spring. Additionally, placing a piece of the log under the household's bed was believed to ward off evil and lightning strikes.

Mumming and Mummer's Plays: Theatrical Festivities

Mumming, a form of medieval folk play, involved masked participants performing scripted dramas, often revolving around themes of death and resurrection. These plays, coupled with gambling for rewards, were integral to Christmas celebrations.

Dr. Eleanor Jaenega (35:14): "Mumming is quite fun because we know that we have references to mumming from at least the 13th century."

Originating from courtly celebrations, mummers' plays extended to public performances in marketplaces, blending humor, satire, and communal interaction. This tradition mirrored the broader medieval practice of temporary social inversion, where societal norms were upended in a controlled and festive manner.

Conclusion: Reflections on Medieval Festivities

As the episode draws to a close, Matt and Dr. Jaenega reflect on the rich tapestry of medieval Christmas traditions. They emphasize how these customs reveal the societal values, fears, and joys of the time, offering modern listeners a window into the medieval psyche.

Dr. Eleanor Jaenega (42:24): "This is one of the times of year that you can sort of find out the most about who medieval people really are at their core."

The hosts advocate for a revival of certain medieval practices, such as the expansive festivities of the twelve days of Christmas, to enrich contemporary celebrations and reconnect with historical roots.

Notable Quotes

• Dr. Eleanor Jaenega (03:26): "Advent's the time of year you contemplate the end of the universe... Advent is when you sit around and think about the fact that the world is going to end."

• Dr. Eleanor Jaenega (06:22): "This is where we get the tradition of gift giving at Christmas."

• Matt Lewis (18:22): "Medieval football is basically a middle age equivalent of the Purge."

• Dr. Eleanor Jaenega (35:14): "Mumming is quite fun because we know that we have references to mumming from at least the 13th century."

Final Thoughts

"Gone Medieval: Midwinter Medieval Traditions" offers an engaging and informative exploration of how medieval societies celebrated the winter season. By unraveling these historical customs, Matt Lewis and Dr. Eleanor Jaenega provide listeners with a deeper appreciation of the enduring legacy of medieval traditions in today's festive practices.