Elizabeth of Denmark, Duchess of Mecklenburg

At the table

Beer as a daily thirst quencher

Because water quality was poor, ordinary families drank beer with every meal, including children; it was typically not strong and often quite sour.

What people wore

Homemade clothing and purchased finery

Ordinary people often made their own clothing at home from materials like wool, linen, and animal skins, while finer items like silk or damask were purchased for special occasions.

Getting around

Shift to wagon travel

During the 16th century, traveling by wagon became increasingly common for men, whereas at the start of the century, both men and women typically traveled on horseback.

What it cost

Cost of a barrel of rye in 1524

In 1524, a barrel of rye was recorded as costing 8 skilling in one instance and 12 skilling in another.

Music

Popular instruments at festivals

Common folk instruments included the shawm, flute, bagpipes, and drums, which were used to provide music for weddings and social festivals.

Daily life

Household-based education and basic literacy

There was no compulsory schooling, and children were primarily educated within their own households, with boys learning trades from their fathers and girls helping their mothers. However, parish clerks were increasingly tasked with teaching children basic reading of printed text, using Christian materials like Luther's Small Catechism.