Customer Reviews

Food and Feast in Tudor England

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As a serving wench in the King's Feast Hall at the Texas Renaissance Faire, I am asked all sorts of questions about the food, the utensils, the beverages, and anything having to do with food and feasting during King Henry VIII's time. "Food and Feast in Tudor England" is not only enjoyable to read (i.e. more than just a dry recitation of the facts), but highly informative as well. Each chapter covers a various aspect such as Food and Society in the 16th Century, Kitchens and Kitchen Equipment, Health and Diet, and Tableware to name a few. As with her other books, Alison Sim has written this book in an interesting, informative, easy-to-digest manner. In addition to knowledge for knowledge's sake, this book is a must-have for anyone involved in Tudor/Renaissance role-playing. When I answer the feast hall patrons' questions, I will be giving them facts and not something made-up!

This is a really fascinating book for anyone with a passing interest in either history or food! Yes, you foodies out there will find it to be a really good read.

The different chapters of the book deal with different aspects of the everyday life. And it is well written too - not just a dry historical text, but a rich detailing of what was available to eat and how it looked. Most people have seen grand feasts on TV or movies, such as whole roasted peacocks with their feathers put back, and yes, you can read of such extravaganzas right here!

It is a really interesting book - guaranteed to generate conversation if you leave it out the next time you have a dinner party. It is good fun too, and always interesting!