Bells, Staves & Misrule

Today we’re stepping into one of the most colourful, energetic, and wonderfully noisy traditions of the Tudor festive season, Morris dancing.

You might picture modern dancers with bells and handkerchiefs on a village green…
but in Tudor England, Morris dancing was bolder, brighter, and far more theatrical.

In this video, we’ll explore:

- What Morris dancing really looked like in the 15th and 16th centuries - bells, ribbons, masks, mock combat, clashing staves, blackened faces, and vibrant costumes
How it became part of court entertainment - including Henry VII’s Christmas revels and Henry VIII’s masques

- Its deep roots in English folk culture - from May Day to Whitsun ales, parish festivals to civic pageantry

- The unforgettable stock characters - Maid Marian (played by a man!), jesters, hobby-horses, Robin Hood, even dragons!

- Why it mattered at Christmas and Twelfth Night - joy, misrule, community, and celebration at the darkest time of year

- And how Morris dancing survives today - a living tradition linking us directly to the Tudor world

If you’ve ever seen Morris dancing and wondered where it came from, or if you simply love the colour, spectacle, and spirit of Tudor celebrations, this episode is for you.

Thank you so much for watching!
If you’re enjoying this festive journey through Tudor Christmas, please like, subscribe, and click the bell - there’s more Yuletide history coming your way tomorrow.

 

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