The History of Jesters in Medieval England: Fools with Purpose and Power
When we picture the Middle Ages, one of the most colorful figures to emerge from the court is the jester — the fool in motley clothes, cap and bells jingling, whose quick wit and clever tongue could make a king laugh or squirm. While today we think of jesters as simple entertainers, their true role in medieval England was far more complex. They were comedians, storytellers, political commentators, and even trusted confidants to monarchs. The history of the English jester reveals how humor could be both a form of entertainment and a subtle instrument of influence in a time...
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