ACROBATS and ACTORS
Acrobats and Actors were important parts of Medieval life. The traveling circus (as we still know it today) originated long before the Middle Ages and was a great source of entertainment, morale and revenue for towns and cities. As most people lacked formal education and could not read, actors were important to portray various roles that told of topical and historical events. Though not much training was available for these jobs, those who held the positions were not highly regarded in social circles.
APOTHECARIST
An Apothecarist was one trained and skilled in the arts of formal medicine. Though not as highly regarded as a physician, these workers devoted their time and studies to the arts of healing. Trained physicians were expensive and usually only retained and hired by kings, nobles and the elite. Therefore the Apothecarist served the common people. Commonly a monk or priest held the position and most available remedies came from the natural uses of plants, herbs and roots. It is believed that most of these practical applications were first discovered by the Celts and Druids. An Apothecarist who was a member of a religious order often charged a donation to his sect for his services. A layman who served in the same occupation could charge whatever fees he or she wanted.
ARCHITECT
Architects built structures, towns and buildings. Not only did they possess the knowledge to construct these things but they also had the skill to plan entire cities. Architects were highly in demand and were paid high wages for their services. As war spread across Europe during the Medieval Ages it was important for a king to have an architect who could build strong, reliable and defensible towns, buildings and castles. Much of the Gothic architecture that stands today throughout Europe was built during the Medieval Ages. Churches, castles, cathedrals and theaters were often not only functional buildings, but statements of a king’s wealth and power.
The Medieval Architect had to have skill in math and a creative mind. In many cases is a city or castle was conquered by an enemy the architect would be put to death. Having his buildings mastered by an enemy was the ultimate sign of failure.
ARMORER
The Medieval Armorer held a very important position in the workforce. Not only were his skills highly required by nobles and monarchs, but the commoners enlisted his services during times of war as well. The Armorer was usually a blacksmith as well but as war became a more frequent event, many blacksmiths could afford to relinquish their skills of crafting metalworks and strictly pursue the field of making armor. It paid dearly for them as a suit of armor could cost the modern equivalent of $60,000.00 - $90,000.00 or even more! Armor had to be uniquely crafted to fit its wearer and as such it was considered a specialty line of work.
Most Armorers were members of the Middle Class and were often very wealthy indeed.
ARTIST
Artists were common during the Medieval Ages but only the best were conscripted by kings, nobles and the elite to produce portraits. Preserving the images and likeness of a person and his family served as a contribution to history and future generations.
The Medieval Artist often went from town to town seeking business but once an artist had a royal or noble commission and if his work was worthy, his career was made. Perhaps the two most famous Medieval artists are Michaelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. The mediums used by most Medieval Artists were varied. Most preferred oil-based paints that were manufactured by mixing different agents into berry-dye. Watercolors were also popular and enamel painting was in its early stages.
ASTROLOGER
The study of the stars and planets was not a new science in the Medieval Ages but it was regarded as being mystical. The Astrologer did not only use the heavens as a reference but he or she also studied the earth, the weather cycles and the seasonal patterns. It was believed that through these things a better understanding could be gained for agriculture and other social successes.
Many astrologers posed various and opposing theories. Some claimed the earth revolved around the sun, others claimed that it was the moon that revolved around the earth. In fact, part of Christopher Columbus’s journey to the Americas in 1492 was partially to dispel a theory that the earth was flat. Sometimes Astrologers were accused of practicing witchcraft as their studies took them into unorthodox techniques and discoveries.
The Druids were thought to be the first to seek a true understanding of celestial bodies and experts argue that the mystical Stonehenge is nothing more than a lunar calendar.
BAKER
The Baker was a common occupation but not as easy as some may think. In the Medieval Ages there was a period when bakers began cheating the public at such a rate that public outcry reached the ears of several kings. As bread was a daily staple of Medieval life, the bakers knew that they could charge a lot of money for minimal portions of their products. As such, kings levied laws against bakers stating that they were to lower their pricesand keep honest. In fact the common term “A Baker’s Dozen” (meaning 13 instead of 12) came from this time period.
Any baker caught selling less than an even dozen was strictly and harshly punished. As a result bakers began adding one extra loaf to be certain their count would be correct or even over the amount decreed by law. Good bakers were often invited and employed by the rich and elite as personal cooks and chefs inside the safety of castles. Their duties included the preparation of dinners and large feasts. There were exceptional bakers of all classes.
BARRISTER
The Barrister was a professional lawyer. Legal arbitration was popular during the Medieval Ages as people challenged claims to land, inherited holdings and even common law. Different provincial territories were usually subjected to the laws of the local lord who governed them. As such, litigation could easily arise between the residents of two neighboring communities. Often a local priest would be consulted to act as a Barrister but as times progressed people realized that there were high wages to be earned for the skilled and professional lawyer. After much litigation and arbitration arose and as disputes became difficult to settle under the umbrella of conflicting laws, a new system for order was instituted.
A policy called “The King’s Law” became the sole source of legal behavior permissable throughout sovereign lands. Each successive king could change any law he deemed fit but the people were bound legally to adhere to it. Barristers became well respected during the Medieval Ages and helped to write and form many of the laws that we still practice today.
BOOKBINDER
An occupation that was extremely important but receives very little credit is the position of the Medieval Bookbinder. This skill was very important as diaries, journals and manifests were being written during the time period. News of discoveries, law, science, medicine, technology and industry were recorded on paper and were then bound together in the format of a book by professional binders. As there were no machines for printing, each journal and book was meticulously and painstakingly handwritten. The Bookbinder had to be careful when setting the pages together to not tear, damage or destroy any portion of the manuscript. Many of these books still survive today in Churches and museums and serve as a testament to the excellent work performed.
Bookbinders usually joined a guild where they learned the trade as an apprentice.
BOWYER
The Bowyer (also called a Bower or Fletcher), crafted and manufactured bows, arrows, crossbows and bolts. The effectiveness of the standard bow in combat was first recognized by the Barbarian armies of Eastern Europe around 1070 AD. But it was not until October 4, 1189 that Archers and bowmen established themselves at the Battle of Acre and proved the quality of the bow as a weapon. From that point forward, the bow became a standard weapon. It was easy to craft by those who knew the skill and was readily affordable to most people. Bowyers worked with a variety of woods and tools. A well crafted bow had durability and even balance. The skill was much in demand and remained a premier trade until the 1600s.
BREWER
The Brewer made and fermented beers and ales. The process was completed through combining and aging hops, barley, wheat, malt and grain. The beverages were served as a staple of daily life and were consumed in pubs, alehouses, taverns, castles and homes. During sieges and combat, historical documentation often tells of ‘barrels of beer’ being delivered to the troops. The beverage was so important to the fighting men that a document even states that at the Battle Of Sempach on July 9, 1386, the fighting actually stopped in mid-battle so that wagoneers could deliver kegs and barrels of beer to each respective military.
Brewers were permitted their own enterprise during the Medieval Ages but since their product was so highly in demand it often fell to heavy taxes and levies being placed upon its sale and at times, even its consumption.
BRICKLAYER
Bricklaying was common labor and though it did not require vast knowledge or skill, those who showed agility at the work were often subjected to an abundance of employment and decent pay. Often was the time when a king or noble would receive news that an approaching enemy army was marching toward his towns and castle. The agile Bricklayers were then conscripted to build retaining walls and obstacles and even reinforce the towns and communities that were threatened. Not only did war contribute to the benefit of the Bricklayer, but events such as fires and floods were often left to his protection. By rapidly constructing walls and ducts, it was possible to divert fires and floods and thus spare an entire city, castle or town.
Bricklayers though quite common throughout the Medieval Ages were highly respected members of their social orders.
CANDLEMAKER
The Candle maker was a specialist with many talents. Though making candles was (and still is) a relatively easy project, the craftsman also had to have a knowledge of the bees that provided him with the substance to complete his work. Once the wax was made a wick constructed of cord or twine was soaked in an oil-based solution, inserted into the center of the wax mold and then the candle was either pressed or shaped by hand. Candles provided illumination and were also necessary for church ceremonies. It’s believed to have been in the 11th Century when a Candle maker by the name of Graham Overhill invented a candle with twelve markings (lines) on it. When lit at the top of the hour, the candle would burn from line to line at the rate of one hour each. Thus Overhill’s candle served as a clock as well.
Though specific skills were required, candle making was an easy craft and it was never known to provide more than a modest income.
CARPENTER
Carpenters were highly skilled and considered to be elite tradesmen. To become a Carpenter it was usually necessary to join a guild as an apprentice and learn the craft. Most items used during daily life in the Medieval Ages were produced and manufactured by carpenters. Homes, wagons, tables, furniture, tools and utensils were all the creations of these gifted workers. Knowledge of math, woodworking and the use of tools was required. Though many of the implements used were basic in comparison to those employed today, it can be argued that some fine examples of work were produced during the Middle Ages.
Kings and nobles often sought out the finest carpenters and kept them retained on their staffs as specialists. Furnishing castles and estates was not only done for decorative purposes but also to demonstrate prestige and status to visitors. Thus a master carpenter was always in demand and could stand to earn high wages.
CARTOGRAPHER
Cartographers (or map-makers) held a very important position in service to a king or noble. As information of terrain and the oceans became known and available, it was the job of the Cartographer to draw a detailed map of a given area. These maps had to be accurate for many reasons. For example if a king ordered his army to march into an enemy land he needed to know of land and topographical features such as mountains, forests and rivers. Not only did these places serve as barriers that were difficult for his troops to traverse, but they also provided his enemies with advantageous places to launch ambushes and attacks. As such, detailed maps were highly sought after. Also, it was important to note new lands discovered on ocean voyages as it gave kings the opportunity to subjugate new areas.
Cartography was also important to distinguish boundaries of neighboring kingdoms or fiefdoms. Sometimes devious nobles had false maps drawn and they allowed them to ‘slip’ into the hands of their enemies.
The cartographer had to be an artist as well, versed in reading and writing and skilled with math and geography.
CLOTHIER
Clothing was not an available commodity to the lower classes and peasantry until the 12th Century. In contrast, as the elite and members of the nobility could afford the lavish prices of clothing, those who made garments (called Clothiers) were sought after for their skills. Being a Clothier meant having a knowledge of various materials and how to assemble them into fine pieces of wear. The clothing of the time had to be durable, fashionable and decorative as even during the Medieval Ages, clothing was more of a status symbol.
The Clothier had to be experienced with mathematics, design and skill for assembly. If serving the nobility a handsome profit could be made. But when fabrics became available to all classes, the Clothier earned a modest living.
COOK
It seems that during any time period the position of a Cook was usually thankless and difficult. The Medieval Ages were no exception. As methods for preserving food were not invented to any degree of effectiveness, Cooks often used salt to preserve meats and fish. The winter weather provided snow and ice to act as refrigeration but often preparing a meal was no easy task. Spices and extracts that we take for granted today were highly expensive during the Medieval Ages. Trade routes were still being discovered and items such as saffron, ginger and cinnamon came from the Far East. Thus, a delicious meal was usually enjoyed by only those who could afford the components to make one.
Feasts were held to commemorate holidays and important political events. These meals were served to hundreds of guests and sometimes thousands. It was necessary for the Cook to impress the friends of his lord or master. There are many instances on record, such as the event in the year 1302 when Sir Henry Campbell, master of Lamberth Castle, had his Cook imprisoned for serving a meal that was considered poor. Though a wide variety of foods were available in the Medieval Ages, a good Cook only earned an average living with fair wages.
DIPLOMAT
Those fortunate enough to possess the skills to become political Diplomats were often on the road to nobility and positions of title. The Medieval Diplomat served as a royal messenger and ambassador to the king, queen or noble he served. Diplomats would often be sent on missions to speak on behalf of the monarchy to rival kings or ruling houses. The Diplomat would negotiate political deals such as peace treaties, hostage or prisoner releases and matters of trade, commerce and economics.
The Diplomat needed to be firm, loyal and dedicated to the master he served and it was also required that he have excellent speaking skills, the knowledge of reading and writing and a shrewd manner. If a Diplomat successfully delegated a trade or commerce pact he was often entitled to a percentage of the revenue this new deal generated. Therefore Diplomats were often wealthy people. However the astute Diplomat knew how to negotiate deals that not only favored both rival parties but also was to his own benefit.
The Diplomat could reap financial reward from both factions if he curtailed the deals to fit his own interests. Often Diplomats were the educated members of the Upper Class and elite societies. They often held titles such as Count, Duke or Baron and normally retired with great wealth and prestige.
DYER
Dyers used their skills to mix different components to form inks, dyes and colorful stains that could add tint and hue to clothing, furniture, fabrics, materials and artwork. Not only did they possess the ability to decorate fashionable wear but they also provided scribes and artists with the materials necessary for them to complete their work. The Dyer had a multi-faceted job. Not only was the making of the various dyes difficult and tedious work but often it was dangerous too. Different berries and plants used to create the pigments often contained a degree of poison that was lethal if handled, inhaled or accidentally ingested.
Though the Dyer put his or her life in jeopardy by working, the wages earned were quite meager and below average. Most women held the positions of Dyers and though some were elevated to strictly work for the elite and nobility, most worked in small towns and communities.
ENGINEER
Engineers are evident throughout history beginning in ancient Egypt and reaching a position of prominent status in ancient Rome. These skilled tradesmen were essential to the successful expansion of any political kingdom. Not only were cities and towns improved by their skills but warfare and daily life saw better odds with the meaningful contributions of Engineers. Difficult tasks such as building expansion bridges, reinforcing the subterranean foundations of castle walls, building powerful siege engines for use in battle and even irrigation and aqueducts were a few of the jobs Engineers were called upon to perform.
In the Medieval Ages without the refined tools, knowledge and materials available today, the above tasks were considered monumental feats of achievement. Not only did such things improve the morale and efficiency of a kingdom but it also stood to prevent disease in the areas of plumbing and rubbish removal and even served to be more productive in irrigating crops and providing water. Engineers did most of their work by ‘trial and error’ and though kings and nobles recognized and acknowledged the wide margin for potential failure, such could end the life or career of a skilled Engineer. Though many feats were undertaken for the very first time, such enterprises were costly and put a strain on the financial reserves of a kingdom. However, Engineers were highly respected and were usually employed by the most rich and powerful kings and queens of Medieval society.
ENGRAVER
An Engraver was a specialist who was often called upon to etch messages and designs into swords, shields, armor and metal plaques. An artist in his own right, he worked with a variety of custom tools to produce his trade. Though the art form has been modified by the advances in technology of today, the Medieval Engraver practiced his craft in a most time consuming and painstaking way. If the results of his work were unattractive or undesirable, the customer would often not pay or even had legal grounds to sue the Engraver for ruining a piece of private property. As such the Engraver had to produce quality work.
Despite being a specialty, Engravers were quite common throughout the Medieval Ages. The wages earned were generally modest but being conscripted or hired by a noble or monarch for a custom project could find him the recipient of high pay.
FARMER
Farming was the most popular occupation of the Medieval Ages as it was an essential element to survival. A local lord or master would grant portions of his land to commoners and serfs and in exchange the people would till, cultivate and maintain the property to produce crops. What was grown was eventually sold at local markets at which the peasants were allowed to keep a share. Most revenue went to the local lord however through taxes and levies. In the society of the Middle Ages, a man’s status was based on how much land and livestock he owned. As both of these elements were critical for revenue, a private farmer who owned his own land could become quite rich. Crops were varied and depended greatly on how fertile the plot of farmed land was.
FISHERMAN
The Fisherman was much like the farmer in that he provided food as a commodity and thus sustained the survival of towns and villages. Usually a professional fisherman worked on a boat owned by a noble or local lord. The work would begin at sunrise as the boats would depart to cast lines and nets into oceans, lakes, rivers and causeways. Fish tended to fetch a higher price in the market because of the rapid rate at which they deteriorated and spoiled.
A fisherman who had his own boat was not necessarily in a position to capitalize on free enterprise. Though he was entitled to operate legally by himself, most waterways were the legal right and claim of kings and nobles. Therefore limits were imposed on the private fisherman as to how much bounty he could haul out of the waters. Even then, higher taxes were assessed on him in the markets to ensure that the regent or local master got his due share.
FORESTER
The Forester usually held a position equal to a sheriff or local law enforcer. He was responsible for patrolling the woodlands on a lord or noble’s property. His duties included negotiating deals for the sale of lumber and timber and to stop poachers from illegally killing animals in the forest. Many times wanted criminals would flee their arrest warrants and seek the safety of hiding in a forest. When this would occur it was the duty of the Forester to organize roving gangs of armed men to flush out the criminal and capture him.
Often Foresters held titles of prominence in their local communities and also acted as barristers and arbitrators. Their pay was usually above average and they could stand to make a decent and profitable living.
Acrobats and Actors were important parts of Medieval life. The traveling circus (as we still know it today) originated long before the Middle Ages and was a great source of entertainment, morale and revenue for towns and cities. As most people lacked formal education and could not read, actors were important to portray various roles that told of topical and historical events. Though not much training was available for these jobs, those who held the positions were not highly regarded in social circles.
APOTHECARIST
An Apothecarist was one trained and skilled in the arts of formal medicine. Though not as highly regarded as a physician, these workers devoted their time and studies to the arts of healing. Trained physicians were expensive and usually only retained and hired by kings, nobles and the elite. Therefore the Apothecarist served the common people. Commonly a monk or priest held the position and most available remedies came from the natural uses of plants, herbs and roots. It is believed that most of these practical applications were first discovered by the Celts and Druids. An Apothecarist who was a member of a religious order often charged a donation to his sect for his services. A layman who served in the same occupation could charge whatever fees he or she wanted.
ARCHITECT
Architects built structures, towns and buildings. Not only did they possess the knowledge to construct these things but they also had the skill to plan entire cities. Architects were highly in demand and were paid high wages for their services. As war spread across Europe during the Medieval Ages it was important for a king to have an architect who could build strong, reliable and defensible towns, buildings and castles. Much of the Gothic architecture that stands today throughout Europe was built during the Medieval Ages. Churches, castles, cathedrals and theaters were often not only functional buildings, but statements of a king’s wealth and power.
The Medieval Architect had to have skill in math and a creative mind. In many cases is a city or castle was conquered by an enemy the architect would be put to death. Having his buildings mastered by an enemy was the ultimate sign of failure.
ARMORER
The Medieval Armorer held a very important position in the workforce. Not only were his skills highly required by nobles and monarchs, but the commoners enlisted his services during times of war as well. The Armorer was usually a blacksmith as well but as war became a more frequent event, many blacksmiths could afford to relinquish their skills of crafting metalworks and strictly pursue the field of making armor. It paid dearly for them as a suit of armor could cost the modern equivalent of $60,000.00 - $90,000.00 or even more! Armor had to be uniquely crafted to fit its wearer and as such it was considered a specialty line of work.
Most Armorers were members of the Middle Class and were often very wealthy indeed.
ARTIST
Artists were common during the Medieval Ages but only the best were conscripted by kings, nobles and the elite to produce portraits. Preserving the images and likeness of a person and his family served as a contribution to history and future generations.
The Medieval Artist often went from town to town seeking business but once an artist had a royal or noble commission and if his work was worthy, his career was made. Perhaps the two most famous Medieval artists are Michaelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. The mediums used by most Medieval Artists were varied. Most preferred oil-based paints that were manufactured by mixing different agents into berry-dye. Watercolors were also popular and enamel painting was in its early stages.
ASTROLOGER
The study of the stars and planets was not a new science in the Medieval Ages but it was regarded as being mystical. The Astrologer did not only use the heavens as a reference but he or she also studied the earth, the weather cycles and the seasonal patterns. It was believed that through these things a better understanding could be gained for agriculture and other social successes.
Many astrologers posed various and opposing theories. Some claimed the earth revolved around the sun, others claimed that it was the moon that revolved around the earth. In fact, part of Christopher Columbus’s journey to the Americas in 1492 was partially to dispel a theory that the earth was flat. Sometimes Astrologers were accused of practicing witchcraft as their studies took them into unorthodox techniques and discoveries.
The Druids were thought to be the first to seek a true understanding of celestial bodies and experts argue that the mystical Stonehenge is nothing more than a lunar calendar.
BAKER
The Baker was a common occupation but not as easy as some may think. In the Medieval Ages there was a period when bakers began cheating the public at such a rate that public outcry reached the ears of several kings. As bread was a daily staple of Medieval life, the bakers knew that they could charge a lot of money for minimal portions of their products. As such, kings levied laws against bakers stating that they were to lower their pricesand keep honest. In fact the common term “A Baker’s Dozen” (meaning 13 instead of 12) came from this time period.
Any baker caught selling less than an even dozen was strictly and harshly punished. As a result bakers began adding one extra loaf to be certain their count would be correct or even over the amount decreed by law. Good bakers were often invited and employed by the rich and elite as personal cooks and chefs inside the safety of castles. Their duties included the preparation of dinners and large feasts. There were exceptional bakers of all classes.
BARRISTER
The Barrister was a professional lawyer. Legal arbitration was popular during the Medieval Ages as people challenged claims to land, inherited holdings and even common law. Different provincial territories were usually subjected to the laws of the local lord who governed them. As such, litigation could easily arise between the residents of two neighboring communities. Often a local priest would be consulted to act as a Barrister but as times progressed people realized that there were high wages to be earned for the skilled and professional lawyer. After much litigation and arbitration arose and as disputes became difficult to settle under the umbrella of conflicting laws, a new system for order was instituted.
A policy called “The King’s Law” became the sole source of legal behavior permissable throughout sovereign lands. Each successive king could change any law he deemed fit but the people were bound legally to adhere to it. Barristers became well respected during the Medieval Ages and helped to write and form many of the laws that we still practice today.
BOOKBINDER
An occupation that was extremely important but receives very little credit is the position of the Medieval Bookbinder. This skill was very important as diaries, journals and manifests were being written during the time period. News of discoveries, law, science, medicine, technology and industry were recorded on paper and were then bound together in the format of a book by professional binders. As there were no machines for printing, each journal and book was meticulously and painstakingly handwritten. The Bookbinder had to be careful when setting the pages together to not tear, damage or destroy any portion of the manuscript. Many of these books still survive today in Churches and museums and serve as a testament to the excellent work performed.
Bookbinders usually joined a guild where they learned the trade as an apprentice.
BOWYER
The Bowyer (also called a Bower or Fletcher), crafted and manufactured bows, arrows, crossbows and bolts. The effectiveness of the standard bow in combat was first recognized by the Barbarian armies of Eastern Europe around 1070 AD. But it was not until October 4, 1189 that Archers and bowmen established themselves at the Battle of Acre and proved the quality of the bow as a weapon. From that point forward, the bow became a standard weapon. It was easy to craft by those who knew the skill and was readily affordable to most people. Bowyers worked with a variety of woods and tools. A well crafted bow had durability and even balance. The skill was much in demand and remained a premier trade until the 1600s.
BREWER
The Brewer made and fermented beers and ales. The process was completed through combining and aging hops, barley, wheat, malt and grain. The beverages were served as a staple of daily life and were consumed in pubs, alehouses, taverns, castles and homes. During sieges and combat, historical documentation often tells of ‘barrels of beer’ being delivered to the troops. The beverage was so important to the fighting men that a document even states that at the Battle Of Sempach on July 9, 1386, the fighting actually stopped in mid-battle so that wagoneers could deliver kegs and barrels of beer to each respective military.
Brewers were permitted their own enterprise during the Medieval Ages but since their product was so highly in demand it often fell to heavy taxes and levies being placed upon its sale and at times, even its consumption.
BRICKLAYER
Bricklaying was common labor and though it did not require vast knowledge or skill, those who showed agility at the work were often subjected to an abundance of employment and decent pay. Often was the time when a king or noble would receive news that an approaching enemy army was marching toward his towns and castle. The agile Bricklayers were then conscripted to build retaining walls and obstacles and even reinforce the towns and communities that were threatened. Not only did war contribute to the benefit of the Bricklayer, but events such as fires and floods were often left to his protection. By rapidly constructing walls and ducts, it was possible to divert fires and floods and thus spare an entire city, castle or town.
Bricklayers though quite common throughout the Medieval Ages were highly respected members of their social orders.
CANDLEMAKER
The Candle maker was a specialist with many talents. Though making candles was (and still is) a relatively easy project, the craftsman also had to have a knowledge of the bees that provided him with the substance to complete his work. Once the wax was made a wick constructed of cord or twine was soaked in an oil-based solution, inserted into the center of the wax mold and then the candle was either pressed or shaped by hand. Candles provided illumination and were also necessary for church ceremonies. It’s believed to have been in the 11th Century when a Candle maker by the name of Graham Overhill invented a candle with twelve markings (lines) on it. When lit at the top of the hour, the candle would burn from line to line at the rate of one hour each. Thus Overhill’s candle served as a clock as well.
Though specific skills were required, candle making was an easy craft and it was never known to provide more than a modest income.
CARPENTER
Carpenters were highly skilled and considered to be elite tradesmen. To become a Carpenter it was usually necessary to join a guild as an apprentice and learn the craft. Most items used during daily life in the Medieval Ages were produced and manufactured by carpenters. Homes, wagons, tables, furniture, tools and utensils were all the creations of these gifted workers. Knowledge of math, woodworking and the use of tools was required. Though many of the implements used were basic in comparison to those employed today, it can be argued that some fine examples of work were produced during the Middle Ages.
Kings and nobles often sought out the finest carpenters and kept them retained on their staffs as specialists. Furnishing castles and estates was not only done for decorative purposes but also to demonstrate prestige and status to visitors. Thus a master carpenter was always in demand and could stand to earn high wages.
CARTOGRAPHER
Cartographers (or map-makers) held a very important position in service to a king or noble. As information of terrain and the oceans became known and available, it was the job of the Cartographer to draw a detailed map of a given area. These maps had to be accurate for many reasons. For example if a king ordered his army to march into an enemy land he needed to know of land and topographical features such as mountains, forests and rivers. Not only did these places serve as barriers that were difficult for his troops to traverse, but they also provided his enemies with advantageous places to launch ambushes and attacks. As such, detailed maps were highly sought after. Also, it was important to note new lands discovered on ocean voyages as it gave kings the opportunity to subjugate new areas.
Cartography was also important to distinguish boundaries of neighboring kingdoms or fiefdoms. Sometimes devious nobles had false maps drawn and they allowed them to ‘slip’ into the hands of their enemies.
The cartographer had to be an artist as well, versed in reading and writing and skilled with math and geography.
CLOTHIER
Clothing was not an available commodity to the lower classes and peasantry until the 12th Century. In contrast, as the elite and members of the nobility could afford the lavish prices of clothing, those who made garments (called Clothiers) were sought after for their skills. Being a Clothier meant having a knowledge of various materials and how to assemble them into fine pieces of wear. The clothing of the time had to be durable, fashionable and decorative as even during the Medieval Ages, clothing was more of a status symbol.
The Clothier had to be experienced with mathematics, design and skill for assembly. If serving the nobility a handsome profit could be made. But when fabrics became available to all classes, the Clothier earned a modest living.
COOK
It seems that during any time period the position of a Cook was usually thankless and difficult. The Medieval Ages were no exception. As methods for preserving food were not invented to any degree of effectiveness, Cooks often used salt to preserve meats and fish. The winter weather provided snow and ice to act as refrigeration but often preparing a meal was no easy task. Spices and extracts that we take for granted today were highly expensive during the Medieval Ages. Trade routes were still being discovered and items such as saffron, ginger and cinnamon came from the Far East. Thus, a delicious meal was usually enjoyed by only those who could afford the components to make one.
Feasts were held to commemorate holidays and important political events. These meals were served to hundreds of guests and sometimes thousands. It was necessary for the Cook to impress the friends of his lord or master. There are many instances on record, such as the event in the year 1302 when Sir Henry Campbell, master of Lamberth Castle, had his Cook imprisoned for serving a meal that was considered poor. Though a wide variety of foods were available in the Medieval Ages, a good Cook only earned an average living with fair wages.
DIPLOMAT
Those fortunate enough to possess the skills to become political Diplomats were often on the road to nobility and positions of title. The Medieval Diplomat served as a royal messenger and ambassador to the king, queen or noble he served. Diplomats would often be sent on missions to speak on behalf of the monarchy to rival kings or ruling houses. The Diplomat would negotiate political deals such as peace treaties, hostage or prisoner releases and matters of trade, commerce and economics.
The Diplomat needed to be firm, loyal and dedicated to the master he served and it was also required that he have excellent speaking skills, the knowledge of reading and writing and a shrewd manner. If a Diplomat successfully delegated a trade or commerce pact he was often entitled to a percentage of the revenue this new deal generated. Therefore Diplomats were often wealthy people. However the astute Diplomat knew how to negotiate deals that not only favored both rival parties but also was to his own benefit.
The Diplomat could reap financial reward from both factions if he curtailed the deals to fit his own interests. Often Diplomats were the educated members of the Upper Class and elite societies. They often held titles such as Count, Duke or Baron and normally retired with great wealth and prestige.
DYER
Dyers used their skills to mix different components to form inks, dyes and colorful stains that could add tint and hue to clothing, furniture, fabrics, materials and artwork. Not only did they possess the ability to decorate fashionable wear but they also provided scribes and artists with the materials necessary for them to complete their work. The Dyer had a multi-faceted job. Not only was the making of the various dyes difficult and tedious work but often it was dangerous too. Different berries and plants used to create the pigments often contained a degree of poison that was lethal if handled, inhaled or accidentally ingested.
Though the Dyer put his or her life in jeopardy by working, the wages earned were quite meager and below average. Most women held the positions of Dyers and though some were elevated to strictly work for the elite and nobility, most worked in small towns and communities.
ENGINEER
Engineers are evident throughout history beginning in ancient Egypt and reaching a position of prominent status in ancient Rome. These skilled tradesmen were essential to the successful expansion of any political kingdom. Not only were cities and towns improved by their skills but warfare and daily life saw better odds with the meaningful contributions of Engineers. Difficult tasks such as building expansion bridges, reinforcing the subterranean foundations of castle walls, building powerful siege engines for use in battle and even irrigation and aqueducts were a few of the jobs Engineers were called upon to perform.
In the Medieval Ages without the refined tools, knowledge and materials available today, the above tasks were considered monumental feats of achievement. Not only did such things improve the morale and efficiency of a kingdom but it also stood to prevent disease in the areas of plumbing and rubbish removal and even served to be more productive in irrigating crops and providing water. Engineers did most of their work by ‘trial and error’ and though kings and nobles recognized and acknowledged the wide margin for potential failure, such could end the life or career of a skilled Engineer. Though many feats were undertaken for the very first time, such enterprises were costly and put a strain on the financial reserves of a kingdom. However, Engineers were highly respected and were usually employed by the most rich and powerful kings and queens of Medieval society.
ENGRAVER
An Engraver was a specialist who was often called upon to etch messages and designs into swords, shields, armor and metal plaques. An artist in his own right, he worked with a variety of custom tools to produce his trade. Though the art form has been modified by the advances in technology of today, the Medieval Engraver practiced his craft in a most time consuming and painstaking way. If the results of his work were unattractive or undesirable, the customer would often not pay or even had legal grounds to sue the Engraver for ruining a piece of private property. As such the Engraver had to produce quality work.
Despite being a specialty, Engravers were quite common throughout the Medieval Ages. The wages earned were generally modest but being conscripted or hired by a noble or monarch for a custom project could find him the recipient of high pay.
FARMER
Farming was the most popular occupation of the Medieval Ages as it was an essential element to survival. A local lord or master would grant portions of his land to commoners and serfs and in exchange the people would till, cultivate and maintain the property to produce crops. What was grown was eventually sold at local markets at which the peasants were allowed to keep a share. Most revenue went to the local lord however through taxes and levies. In the society of the Middle Ages, a man’s status was based on how much land and livestock he owned. As both of these elements were critical for revenue, a private farmer who owned his own land could become quite rich. Crops were varied and depended greatly on how fertile the plot of farmed land was.
FISHERMAN
The Fisherman was much like the farmer in that he provided food as a commodity and thus sustained the survival of towns and villages. Usually a professional fisherman worked on a boat owned by a noble or local lord. The work would begin at sunrise as the boats would depart to cast lines and nets into oceans, lakes, rivers and causeways. Fish tended to fetch a higher price in the market because of the rapid rate at which they deteriorated and spoiled.
A fisherman who had his own boat was not necessarily in a position to capitalize on free enterprise. Though he was entitled to operate legally by himself, most waterways were the legal right and claim of kings and nobles. Therefore limits were imposed on the private fisherman as to how much bounty he could haul out of the waters. Even then, higher taxes were assessed on him in the markets to ensure that the regent or local master got his due share.
FORESTER
The Forester usually held a position equal to a sheriff or local law enforcer. He was responsible for patrolling the woodlands on a lord or noble’s property. His duties included negotiating deals for the sale of lumber and timber and to stop poachers from illegally killing animals in the forest. Many times wanted criminals would flee their arrest warrants and seek the safety of hiding in a forest. When this would occur it was the duty of the Forester to organize roving gangs of armed men to flush out the criminal and capture him.
Often Foresters held titles of prominence in their local communities and also acted as barristers and arbitrators. Their pay was usually above average and they could stand to make a decent and profitable living.
This has not been written by me, I merely refound it and did not wish to Necro the thread at that time. therefore I made a word document in which I copied it. I believe it was @Shadowsmalls who had the Original thread.
So 3 times hurray for cleaning up your laptop while the Server is down
So 3 times hurray for cleaning up your laptop while the Server is down
