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The
Retinue is a socially based Living History Society and this allows a
very wide range of activities, within the 'Broad-Church' of the
Household to be available to members who want to use them as part of
their persona and role.
Each
member has a definite role as their basis for the medieval character
they represent, be it a simple Henchman, Laundress, Yeoman of the Hall,
Yeoman of the Hunt to Lady-in -Waiting, Gilbertine Nun and even Sir
Thomas Burgh himself.
To
compliment or build upon this character the learning of skills is
positively encouraged - all male members are taught the basics of table
laying and service, some specialise in the roles of Pantler, Butler,
Carver and their deputies while others have researched the role of the
Wisewoman, Scribe or Clerk and Barber.
Many
of the able bodied and more 'warlike' men also practice with the weapons
of the period, because The Retinue were expected to turn out, armed, for
war when required as part of their employment. Thus the English Bow,
Crossbow, Handegonne, Sword, Dagger, Bill and other weapons are taught
to those who wish to demonstrate them or use them on re-enactment
battlefields and at sieges with Livery & Maintenance and The
Federation of The Wars of The Roses (Links to their pages?).
Life
in the English Household of the 15th century opens up a cross
section of normal life - from Religion to medicine, gardening to
farming, and trades such as candle-making, baking, shoe making, tailors,
butchers, dyers, lawyers, musicians and waits, doctors, boatmen, cook,
carpenter, blacksmith to name but a few. Within this section we
will show you what the Retinue are actually doing to recreate English
life on the manor in late 15th century England .
Inspired to be with the best? Go to our 'How to Join Page' and take your
interest a step further into a real, worthwhile hobby!
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