Lord of Misrule

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Tile derby

The Abbot of Unreasons - L'Abbé de la Déraison

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Inside St Johns East Dulwich

Lord of Misrule is a traditional figure of popular festivity and revelry in the Christmas season across a number of cultures. The Lord of Misrule is primarily associated with the British Isles and its historical celebrations during the Christmas and New Year's festivities, but similar figures and customs can be found in other European traditions. The role of the Lord of Misrule is to preside over Christmas revels, which often include feasting, drinking, and a variety of games and entertainments. The tradition has its roots in ancient Roman festivities such as Saturnalia, where social roles were reversed, and slaves and masters would exchange places for a time, embodying the world turned upside down.

History

The Lord of Misrule has a long history, with its origins tracing back to Roman times and the festival of Saturnalia, a period of general merrymaking where the normal order of things was inverted. The tradition was adapted into British culture, particularly during the Middle Ages and the Tudor period, where it became a staple of the Christmas season. The Lord of Misrule would be selected from among the common people, and his authority would last from the beginning of December until the end of Twelfth Night in January. This period was marked by continuous feasting, dancing, and general merriment, where the Lord of Misrule would oversee the festivities and ensure that the spirit of celebration was maintained.

During the Tudor period, the Lord of Misrule was a significant figure at the royal court, with monarchs such as Henry VIII and Elizabeth I appointing a Lord of Misrule to oversee the court's Christmas celebrations. The tradition emphasized the temporary suspension of normal social and political hierarchies, allowing for a period of freedom and festivity.

Cultural Significance

The Lord of Misrule symbolizes the inversion of societal norms and the celebration of misrule and disorder within a controlled and temporary context. This figure embodies the spirit of carnival, where traditional roles are reversed, and norms are temporarily suspended. The Lord of Misrule's reign during the Christmas season represents a time of social inversion, where the usual order of society is turned upside down, and everyone is encouraged to partake in the festivities and merrymaking.

Decline and Legacy

The tradition of the Lord of Misrule began to decline in the 17th century, particularly with the rise of the Puritans in England, who sought to suppress many traditional festivities associated with Christmas, viewing them as un-Christian or pagan. However, the legacy of the Lord of Misrule lives on in various forms, such as in modern Christmas pantomimes and other festive traditions that embody the spirit of misrule and merriment.

In Literature and Popular Culture

The Lord of Misrule has been referenced in various literary works and is a part of popular culture, reflecting the enduring fascination with this figure and the traditions associated with him. The concept of a world turned upside down, where the fool becomes king for a day, continues to resonate in stories, films, and other cultural expressions.