IMC 2014: Sessions
Session 1199: Special Session: (Re)Constructing a Medieval Feast (Language: English)
Wednesday 9 July 2014, 13.00-14.00
| Sponsor: | Leeds University Library |
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| Introduction: | Katy Thornton, Special Collections, Leeds University Library |
| Speaker: | Eileen White, Leeds Symposium on Food History |
| Abstract | Medieval feasts were highly organised and often lengthy occasions to mark a particular event. They followed a recognised pattern and were subject to elaborate rituals and etiquettes. Opportunity was taken to reinforce social standing, to display wealth and to impress. Using the resources of the cookery book collection in the Leeds University Library's Special Collections, this session will examine the nature of a feast, and how the menu was put together. Eileen White is a food historian with a keen interest in how these books can be a source for historical research. Following the talk, there will be opportunity to examine the books, and discuss the topic. Shared experiences of cooking from medieval recipes will be welcome. Due to space restrictions this talk is limited to 20 participants, and admission will be on a first-come, first-served basis. Early arrival is therefore strongly recommended. The Reading Room of Special Collections is open from 09.00-18.00 during the Congress week, and IMC delegates are welcome to pursue their research and explore the collection. More details can be found at http://library.leeds.ac.uk/special-collections. |