Sumptuary Law Research

 One of my favorite research projects is the work I am doing on Sumptuary Laws. I was inspired by my dear friend who introduced me to SCA and to the topic.  Since then, my interest has grown into a work in progress (as of the writing of this posting) for our society quarterly, the Compleat Anachronist and a class I have taught at two events, which I have now broken down into more than one class.  

Those who know me, know that I love all the medieval clothes!  I frequently refer to my garb closet at SCA Barbie (TM) because I have to have all the outfits!  That is my joy and part of the fun of this game is that I can do that.  I'm not required to stay in one style of dress or persona.

So what does this have to do with Sumptuary Laws?  And what are Sumptuary Laws?  Well, Sumptuary laws were laws that were passed to control what people wore- clothing and the accessories, how festivals and funerals were celebrated- this included baptisms and marriages, and even the transportation they used- so the tack they put on their horses and the carriages that the horses pulled.  It was a way to continue to maintain social class distinctions.  Many reasons were cited for the creation of Sumptuary laws from maintaining the moral fiber of the community to controlling other crimes and enforcement, it appears, was sporadic.  The laws themselves as well varied from kingdom to kingdom and could be vastly different between neighboring kingdoms and could change dramatically each time a new or updated sumptuary law for that kingdom was passed.

So do we have types of sumptuary laws in the SCA, well the simple answer is yes.  Like and game we have rules.  For example I cannot just go to an event, put a crown on my head and say I'm the Queen.  That is a title that is earned through combat, in this case as either the consort of a combatant or as the combatant herself...but that's a topic for another day.  This adds to the magic and pageantry of our game.  Even the titles we use are earned.  And each kingdom has it's own protocols for specific awards and honors.   Again, all adding to the fun of the game.

So those who are already in, be watching for my issue of the Compleat Anachronist, my goal is next Spring!  For those who are not in the SCA and are interested you can shop online for all the issues on the SCA marketplace at SCA.org.  

Authors note: The opinions expressed in this blog post are my own and do not reflect that of the Society of Creative Anachronism or of Mattel, Inc.  I am not receiving any financial compensation from either entity for the mention of their names in this blog posting.  

For a complete list of references for my research please feel free to contact me through my about me link.  Thank you!