Part 6/8:
Many principles from medieval dining still resonate today. Guests were advised against elevating their elbows on the table to prevent potential accidents, given that trestle tables, often unstable, were common. The act of sharing and temperance was also encouraged, with proper portions reflecting good character.
Medieval writers went to great lengths to outline acceptable behaviors—cautioning against chewing with an open mouth or talking with food in one’s mouth, both of which were not only unsightly but could also be dangerous.