Then and Now

The Feast of Fools (Fête des fous) was a popular medieval festival that took place in Paris and other cities in France. It typically occurred during the Christmas season on or around January 1, and was celebrated by the lower clergy and laypeople.

During the Feast of Fools, traditional roles were turned on their heads and there was much social satire. People mocked the traditional practices of church and society. The lower clergy dressed up in flamboyant costumes, often imitating high-ranking church officials and conducting mock religious ceremonies complete with humorous antics.

The highlight of the Feast of Fools was crowning the “Lord of Misrule” or “King of Fools” who presided over the festivities and was granted temporary authority to issue orders and commands. The Lord of Misrule was usually a commoner or member of the lower clergy who already had a reputation for irreverence.

The Feast of Fools was resound ingly condemned by the Church in the late Middle Ages because it was thought to be irreverent and sacrilegious; yet it continued to be celebrated in various forms throughout Europe for centuries.

If you’re thinking that the celebration that started centuries ago sounds familiar, you’re right! Its influence can still be seen during Mardi Gras and Carnival festivities.