Manors are a large part of Medieval history. It is a wonderful part of medievalism in modern societies. It assists in creating the atmosphere of a medieval event. And although today’s modern medieval group members still pull out their cell phones to take photographs and videos, it behooves us all to do our best to do our part to help create that feel within our camp and at events.
No one expects you to do an accent matching your persona or to be perfect in your garb, tent or kit. And while we strive to make our encampment as medieval as possible, the old folks remember starting out and having to, over the years, build up our equipment. Never worry about your Ozark tent not being “period correct”. Luckily, there are a lot of traditions from Medieval times, such as if you did not like the meat served when you bit into it, you just put that piece back on the platter – someone else that we definitely no longer do lol.
However, one thing we can all do is to help create the atmosphere by being in the Medieval “moment” at events.
In the Book of Courtesy by William Caxton 1477, the author states
“When you leave the house do so with a pleasant expression on your face. Speak nicely to any you see and walk slowly and demurely.
When you speak to others look them directly in the face, maintain a pleasant expression, and do not cast your eyes about for that will be taken as “wanton inconstance.”
While this was written as a children’s book, it set the foundation for being a courteous adult. Ladies were taught to be ladies and men, gracious gentlemen.
Medieval etiquette became so complex, that there were individuals called Master of Ceremonies who were responsible to keep track of all the numerous details of court behavior / etiquette. This included hairstyles down to buckles on your shoes. Women were to walk with their hands clasp in front of them (left palm up, right palm down – fingers cupped over each other). We’re not that over the top on etiquette. But there are many things we can do to help create the medieval feel at events.
Two big things we should all strive for are to be polite and respectful to others. Also, be honest or keep your tongue. We don’t yell at each other and disputes should be done in private, not in front of everyone. (In Medieval times, failing to do these could get you into a lot of trouble (including jail. We don’t put people in jail if they forget these things lol.))
The Pointy Hats
Within the Nobles, there is an Order of Precedence which begins with the King and Queen. They were believed to be ordained by God. And while our modern medieval societies know that it is usually the best fighter or the best army who wins the Crown, we still give them the respect due them.
King and Queen
When you come before the King and Queen, it is expected you bow or curtsy. If they are in progress (meaning they are walking through the event), historically you were to bow as they passed you. You also bow/curtsy when leaving their presence. (Unlike a bow, a curtsy maintains eye contact). In Medieval times, the depth of the bow/curtsy and the length of time it was held was an indication of the depth of reverence and respect.
In modern medievalism, you’ll find two things. If they are wearing their Crowns, bow or give a “nod of respect”. If they are not wearing their Crowns, you aren’t required to bow. They are still people and like to just go have fun at times and not worry about “crown” duties.
They are addressed as “my King” or “your Majesty”. After the initial address, you can use terms such as “Sir” or “Madam / Ma’am” or “your Majesty” You never speak unless spoken to or given a sign you may speak.
If you see them outside of camp and need to speak to them, use the respectful bow and address. In camp, while it helps to create the atmosphere of medieval life, no one will be mad if you forget a proper address, a bow, or even call them by their mundane name (we all forget lol). When the crown comes off in camp, let them just enjoy their time and don’t overdo the “crown” stuff.
The King and Queen should have retainers (1-4 people) to look after/stand guard for them during official duties during events. It may include things like helping them with tent set up, walking with them and being there for them at official events/meetings, and with some Kings and Queens may be making sure they eat and drink enough water (some people forget lol). Retainers do not have to follow them to the privy/shower, go shopping with them, or do anything they can do. For example, if you are retaining and you can’t lug and tote or set up a tent for health reasons or other obligations you have (looking after your kids, running to the store, and various other things you have to do so you can have an enjoyable event), then you are required to do that. You don’t have to stand in the hot sun on the field unless you want to. While we cheer the “let’s be as medieval as we can be”, we’re also there for a hobby and for fun. And if they refuse help, don’t push or boss. You NEVER boss the King or Queen no matter how much you like them and think you are right.
The most important thing is this is supposed to be fun. Never get caught up in the trappings so much that you are miserable at an event. However, do your part so that everyone can enjoy the break from the mundane to medieval with their friends. No modern politics, no drama, as little of the mundane world as you can muster (don’t sit and play on your cellphone the entire time lol). Enjoy the world in which we play.
Duke and Duchess
Dukes and Duchesses are only required to bow to the King and Queen.
To address them is “Your Grace” or “Duke [their first name]” with a small bow or curtsy. After that, you may use “Sir” or “Madam / Ma’am”.
Marquis and Marquessa
A Marquis/Marquessa is a former King or Queen of Solara. They bow only to the sitting King and Queen. To address them “Your Grace” or “My Lord Marquis / My Lady Marquessa” with a small bow / curtsy. Afterward “my Lord / my Lady”.
Count and Countess
Counts are former Princes and Princess of a Principality. They bow to all titles above. To address them is “Your Excellency” and after that “My Lord/Lady”. It is courteous to give them a simple bow or at a minimum nod your head.
Archbishop are addressed as “Your Excellency” or “Archbishop [their first name] with a small bow or curtsy. They hold the highest liturgical position in the Kingdom.
Baron and Baroness
Barons are Lords of the steadings of Solara. They are addressed as “Baron [their first name] or “My Lord/Lady”.
Viscount and Viscountess
These are court appointed titles that govern no land. They are individuals who have provided such service to the Crown they are given a court title. To address them is “Viscount [their first name]” or “My Lord/Lady”.
Knights (Peer)
Knights are referred to as “Sir” or “Dame”.
Masters and Maisters (Arts and Service Peers)
While it is appropriate to use this term for anyone other than the King and Queen, all Masters, and Maisters are to be address as “My Lord/Lady”. This deviates somewhat from medieval history as non-nobles could not hold the title of Lord or Lady unless they were appointed by the King or married into the title. My Lord and My Lady were used in what is called “Courtly Love” and used to woo partners. However, it was not an official title.
Modern things we say
Many of our members were raised to use the terms “sir” and “ma’am” for our elders and as a sign of respect. While you may run into someone who may respond with, “I’m not a sir” as it is a knight’s title, in 1250 “sir” was used for any elder man of importance (even if just important to you.) Saying “Sir John” is much different than saying “yes, sir” out of respect.