Social Life, Heating, Cooking, Lighting, and Rituals in the Mediaeval & Early Modern Period
Until relatively recently the open fire was the beating heart of most homes, and it still is for some. People would gather for warmth around the fire. They would also use it to light their rooms, cook their food, and to provide the focus to greet their guests. Fireplaces and chimneys also offered a location for protecting against fears or anxieties about the perceived threat of evil and bad luck in the world. Put simply, the fireplace was one of the most significant and complex spots in pre-modern houses.
Many of the practical, domestic, social, ceremonial and ritual functions of fireplaces have been lost or forgotten. This talk will seek to dig deep into the history, dating and phasing of fireplaces in historic houses. It will also explain some of the ways in which fireplaces were used and thought about by people during the mediaeval and early modern periods.
To book this lecture for an in-person or online event please do get in contact
