Lifestyle in the 12th Century

2024.12.18

Before the Norman Conquest, the Anglo-Saxon society had not yet developed a feudal system and primarily engaged in pastoralism. Thus, the Normans—led by William the Conqueror—easily subdued the relatively weak population.

The conquest brought significant changes, including the emergence of a new social system and ruling class, as well as the introduction of a new language. The feudal system began to take shape: lords were required to provide military service, and castles and churches were constructed. The role of the Church increased, and administration was organized in line with ecclesiastical structures. These sweeping changes led to uprisings among the oppressed Anglo-Saxon population, which were met with harsh reprisals. In this climate of insecurity, castles and fortifications became increasingly important. The castles, offering protection, were under royal authority, as the king sought to prevent the barons from becoming too powerful.

The castles were built on hills and surrounded by strong stone walls. Access was provided via drawbridges. Inside the fortress, there was a large hall alongside several smaller rooms, which served as bedrooms for the family. The kitchen was located outside the main building. The great hall was the center of life. Its narrow windows lacked glass, and in cold weather, wooden shutters were used for covering. A hearth was placed along the wall of the hall, and smoke filled the room. Furniture was sparse: long tables and benches were used for dining, and servants slept on the floor. Musicians and jugglers entertained the inhabitants of the castle.

In towns, multi-story houses were built of wood and stone. Their interiors resembled those of castles, with a central hall and smaller bedrooms and kitchens. Water was channeled through ditches between the houses. In villages, simple rectangular houses were common. Besides the living quarters, there was a kitchen in the house, but people spent much of their time outdoors. Anglo-Saxon tribal customs still influenced daily life: land was communal and cultivated collectively. Some peasants owned their own land. Over time, communal lands were gradually taken over by individual families, but common lands and pastures coexisted alongside private family estates.

With the growing influence of the Church, monasteries became widespread throughout the country. Monks engaged in agricultural work and provided lodging for traveling nobles. Merchants visited monasteries to supply monks with necessary goods. The monks slept in shared dormitories, maintained a separate infirmary for those in need, and carefully tended to the sick. They lived according to a strict schedule and spent their free time copying manuscripts.

Non-religious hospitals also existed, though they were poorly equipped. Physicians acted as pharmacists, preparing medicines from herbs and plants. Surgery was considered a separate field, often practiced by barbers.

Marjorie and C.H. B. Quennel "A History of Everyday Things in England", ford. Kiss Ágnes

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