Cyber Quest
Just Jesting

Medieval Instruments

Medieval Toys

A Medieval Card Game

Java Games You Can Play

Medieval Music

Pictures of a Hunt

Medieval Dance

More About Music

Drama

Rules of Medieval Games

Games and Recreation

Court Jesters

More About the Jesters

Tournaments and Jousts

Introduction

Good morrow, fellow traveler! King Richard is bored. He has just returned from the Crusades, and is in need of some excitement. Unfortunately, he has a bad habit of beheading jesters who fail to entertain him--he has executed three jesters in the past two weeks for their failure. As you are walking quickly through the castle, trying to avoid catching the King's eye, one of his knights grabs you.

"This fellow looks funny!" the Knight says. "I'll make you a deal. If you can entertain the King for one night, I'll give you riches beyond your wildest dreams. Of course, if you fail, I will cut off your head and hang it from a spike on the castle wall.  Let's go!"

Ignoring your protests, the Knight drags you down the hall. Before you know what's happening, you're standing before the King.  He looks at you sternly, waiting for you to begin.

Your Mission

How will you entertain the King (and keep your head?) For this, you must learn about typical entertainments of the Medieval Era.  Use the information you find to create something to share with the group.

Things to Think About

What was the purpose of a court jester? Did they do more than just make jokes?

What were some of the typical types of entertainment?

What were some games played in this era?

Did royalty have different types of entertainment than did peasants?

Do we still do any of the same things for entertainment today as were done in medieval times? What do we still do?

For more information on how to do this, including suggested time limits and ideas for projects, click here.