Supplemental: This Week in YouTube December 29
Renaissance English History Podcast: A Show About the Tudors
Deep Dive
How did the Tudors celebrate the winter solstice?
The Tudors marked the winter solstice with a blend of ancient customs and their own traditions, focusing on community, hope, and light. They lit bonfires, a symbol of the sun's strength, and gathered around them for warmth and cheer. The solstice also marked the end of the autumn sowing season and the start of a period of rest before spring planting. Storytelling, particularly ghost stories, was another key tradition, connecting people to the mysteries of the season.
What were some of Henry VIII's most unusual possessions?
Henry VIII's possessions included over 20 recorders, 19 vials, two clavichords, and four sets of bagpipes, one made of purple velvet with ivory pipework. He also owned a codpiece large enough to conceal weapons, leather football boots, and a polar bear gifted by the Norwegian king Hakon IV, which he kept at the Tower of London. Additionally, he had a marmoset, over 60 dog leashes, and a bowling alley at Hampton Court Palace.
Why were bonfires significant during the Tudor winter solstice?
Bonfires were a key part of Tudor winter solstice celebrations, symbolizing the sun's strength and the return of light and warmth. They were communal events that brought villages together, serving both practical and ritual purposes. The fires were a way to mark the transition from darkness to light, reflecting the agricultural society's reliance on the natural world.
What role did storytelling play in Tudor solstice traditions?
Storytelling, especially ghost stories, was a significant part of Tudor solstice traditions. It was believed that the veil between the living and the dead was thinnest during this time, making it a period for eerie tales. These stories were not just for entertainment but also a way to connect with the unseen and honor the mysteries of the season.
How did Henry VIII's codpiece reflect his personality?
Henry VIII's codpiece was exaggerated in size, symbolizing masculinity and power. Towards the end of his life, it became so large that he could use it to store valuables, including jewels and small weapons. This reflects his desire to project strength and dominance, even in his personal attire.
What was the significance of Stonehenge during the Tudor period?
Stonehenge, already ancient by the Tudor period, was viewed with reverence and curiosity. Its alignment with the winter solstice sunset was seen as an engineering marvel and a reminder of the constant cycles of nature. While there's no evidence of Tudor celebrations at Stonehenge, it held symbolic importance tied to the rhythms of the world.
Shownotes Transcript