The Middle Ages might seem like ancient history, but many traditions from that time are still very much alive today. While knights in shining armor and castles might be gone, their legacy lives on in surprising ways. In this article, I’ll explore 13 traditions from the Middle Ages that have stood the test of time.
1. Handshaking
This common greeting dates back to medieval times. Knights would extend their empty right hand to show they weren’t carrying a weapon. It was a sign of peace and trust between people meeting. Today, handshakes are used worldwide in both casual and formal settings.
2. Throwing Rice at Weddings
In the Middle Ages, people threw wheat or rice at newlyweds to wish them fertility. This tradition symbolized hopes for a large family and plenty of food. While some modern weddings use alternatives like flower petals or bubbles, rice throwing is still common. It’s a fun way to celebrate the new couple as they leave the ceremony.
3. Birthday Candles
Medieval Germans placed candles on cakes to represent the light of life. They believed this practice protected the birthday person from evil spirits. The custom of making a wish before blowing out candles also started during this time. Today, birthday candles are a beloved tradition in many cultures around the world.
4. Saying “Bless You” After a Sneeze
During the plague outbreaks of the Middle Ages, sneezing was seen as an early symptom. People would say “God bless you” to offer protection from illness. This phrase became a common courtesy, even after the plague ended. Many people still say “bless you” today, often without knowing its historical origins.
5. Clinking Glasses in a Toast
Medieval people would clink their cups together forcefully, causing drink to slosh between them. This was to prove that neither person had poisoned the other’s drink. While we no longer worry about poison, clinking glasses remains a festive tradition. It’s now a symbol of goodwill and celebration at gatherings.
6. Carrying a Bride Over the Threshold
In medieval Europe, it was believed that evil spirits lurked at the doorways of new homes. Grooms would carry their brides over the threshold to protect them from these spirits. This tradition has continued as a romantic gesture for newlyweds. Many couples still practice this custom when entering their new home together.
7. April Fools’ Day
The exact origins are unclear, but April Fools’ Day likely began in medieval times. It may have started when the calendar changed, making April 1 no longer the start of the new year. People who forgot were called “April fools” and pranked. Today, it’s a day for harmless tricks and jokes in many countries.
8. Groundhog Day
This tradition has roots in the medieval Christian holiday of Candlemas. Farmers would watch for animals emerging from hibernation to predict spring’s arrival. In Germany, they watched hedgehogs, which became groundhogs when the custom reached America. The modern celebration still attracts attention every February 2nd.
9. Christmas Caroling
In the Middle Ages, poor people would sing songs in exchange for food or money during winter. This practice evolved into the Christmas caroling we know today. Groups still go door-to-door singing holiday songs in many communities. It’s a festive way to spread cheer and connect with neighbors during the holiday season.
10. Trick-or-Treating
This Halloween tradition has roots in the medieval practice of “souling.” Poor people would go door-to-door on All Souls’ Day, offering prayers for the dead in exchange for food. Over time, this evolved into children dressing up and asking for treats. Today, trick-or-treating is a beloved part of Halloween celebrations in many countries.
11. Romantic Courtship
Medieval ideas of chivalry and courtly love still influence modern romance. The concept of wooing a partner with grand gestures and declarations of love comes from this time. While dating has changed a lot, many still appreciate romantic gestures and expressions of devotion. Movies and books often portray these medieval-inspired ideas of romance.
12. Betrothals and Engagement Rings
The custom of proposing marriage with a ring dates back to medieval times. Wealthy families would arrange marriages and seal the deal with a valuable ring. While most people now choose their own partners, engagement rings remain popular. The tradition of wearing a special ring to show commitment has endured for centuries.
13. University Traditions
Many university customs, like wearing gowns at graduation, come from the Middle Ages. Universities began in medieval times, and students wore robes to stay warm in unheated buildings. Ceremonial gowns, along with other academic traditions, have been preserved in modern universities. These customs connect today’s students with centuries of scholarly history.
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