Every aspect of "courtly culture" comes to life in Joachim Bumke's extraordinarily rich and well-documented presentation. A renowned medievalist with an encyclopedic knowledge of original sources and a passion for history, Bumke overlooks no detail, from the material realities of aristocratic society -- the castles and clothing, weapons and transportation, food, drink, and table etiquette -- to the behavior prescribed and practiced at tournaments, knighting ceremonies, and great princely feasts. The courtly knight and courtly lady, and the transforming idea of courtly love, are seen through the literature that celebrated them, and we learn how literacy among an aristocratic laity spread from France through Germany and became the basis of a cultural revolution. At the same time, Bumke clearly challenges those who have comfortably confused the ideals of courtly culture with their expression in courtly society.

Publisher Description

Through a thematic overview of court culture that connects the cultural with the political, confessional, spatial, material and performative, this volume introduces the dynamics of power and culture in the early modern European court. Exploring the period from 1500 to 1750, Early Modern Court Culture is cross-cultural and interdisciplinary, providing insights into aspects of both community and continuity at courts as well as individual identity, change and difference. Culture is presented as not merely a vehicle for court propaganda in promoting the monarch and the dynasty, but as a site for a complex range of meanings that conferred status and virtue on the patron, maker, court and the wider community of elites. The essays show that the court provided an arena for virtue and virtuosity, intellectual and social play, demonstration of moral authority and performance of social, gendered, confessional and dynastic identity. Early Modern Court Culture moves from political structures and political players to architectural forms and spatial geographies; ceremonial and ritual observances; visual and material culture; entertainment and knowledge. With 35 contributions on subjects including gardens, dress, scent, dance and tapestries, this volume is a necessary resource for all students and scholars interested in the court in early modern Europe.

This volume collects eight recent and innovative studies spanning the breadth of Mesoamerica, from the Early Classic metropolis of Teotihuacan, to Tenochtitlan, the Late Postclassic capital of the Aztec, and from the arid central Mexican highlands in the west to the humid Maya lowlands in the east.

Unveiling the Hidden Power: Exploring the Queens of the Pandya Dynasty For centuries, the history of the Pandya Dynasty, a powerful South Indian kingdom, has focused on the reigns of its kings. But what about the queens who stood beside them, wielding influence far beyond the palace walls? This comprehensive exploration delves into the captivating stories of the Pandya queens, revealing their hidden power and undeniable impact on the dynasty's trajectory. Unveiling the Queens' Roles: We'll move beyond traditional narratives to examine how these queens actively shaped the dynasty's political landscape. From acting as shrewd advisors and regents to fostering strategic alliances, their contributions extended far beyond ceremonial duties. Beyond Politics: Patronage and Cultural Legacy: The queens weren't just political powerhouses; they were also patrons of the arts. Dive deep into their influence on architecture, sculpture, literature, and even dance forms. Explore how they left their mark on the rich cultural tapestry of the Pandya era. Queens and Religion: Upholding Traditions and Social Harmony: Discover the queens' role in upholding religious traditions and promoting social harmony. Explore their involvement in temple construction, rituals, and charitable initiatives that resonated with the broader community. Life Within the Court: Unveiling Daily Routines and Customs: Step inside the opulent walls of the Pandya palace to understand the queens' daily lives. Examine the rituals and customs that governed their existence, offering a glimpse into their experiences beyond the public sphere. A Legacy Beyond the Court: Queens and Society: The queens' influence extended far beyond the palace walls. Explore how they championed public works projects, supported education, and championed social causes, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of the common people. A Call for Continued Exploration: This exploration is just the beginning. We'll discuss the challenges of reconstructing the queens' stories from limited historical records and highlight the exciting potential for further research using new analytical tools and feminist perspectives. Join us on this journey to unveil the hidden power of the Pandya queens. Discover their fascinating stories, their contributions to the dynasty's success, and their enduring legacy that continues to inspire generations.

The social system of 'courtly love' soon spread after becoming popularized by the troubadours of southern France in the twelfth century. This book codifies life at Queen Eleanor's court at Poitiers between 1170 and 1174 into "one of those capital works which reflect the thought of a great epoch, which explain the secret of a civilization."