Most of the Jester’s entertainment in the courts or within the master’s domain would likely include music (vocal and with an instrument), prop and physical comedy, storytelling and myth bringing. Assisting in preventing state affairs from becoming too serious was a main priority to the Jester, as well as bringing excitement to courtly meals, apparently to help assist in aiding with digestion. This position was one held purely for the amusement and humor of his master. It was some serious responsibility and even obligation for the Jester to bring a smile to a sick or often angry King or Monarch. Overall, many of these actors held small roles in the courts they worked for (or were pressed into) and livened up most social events. This staff was symbolic in representing the authority of the royal court. The scepter was more or less ornamental and it was called a “marotte”. There was a head usually carved into the top of the scepter, representing the actor. A couple of surprising details pertaining to symbolism are the hat and scepter that Jesters often wore and carried. Bright colors with eccentric hats and bells were a calling card for Jesters.
The most apparent description of the Jester is a person who worked under the employment of a European noble, telling jokes and providing entertainment. There were two primary types of Jesters in Medieval Europe – the natural fooland the licensed fool. The natural fool was known as moronic in social setting whereas the licensed fool had the legal privileges granted to them to avoid the mentioned court punishments for bad behavior. Bringing bad news was another job for the Jester to deliver to their master - when paid appropriately.Įxcessive misbehavior though, would result in some form of harsh punishment. They typically used humor and parody to joke around and “razz” the nobles and elites. Interestingly enough, Jesters were one of the few people in their lord’s presence that could speak their minds freely without risk of punishment. These people of humor and talents had a privilege given to them by their master: freedom of speech. At times, Jesters, oddly enough, were paid to criticize them too! These people were hired to amuse the lord and the lord’s guests. All of this for the attention of the court of course, and sometime the humility. Jesters are known for their crazy styles and abstract apparel. These characters were well-educated individuals who came from a variety of diverse upbringings. In Medieval Europe, the elites and nobility would hire jesters in which the aristocratic family would regard them as “mascots”. The Jester was common in the times of castles, villages, chain-mail, and treachery.