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What people wore

Popularity of slitted clothing

Slitting sleeves and clothes to reveal contrasting linings or shirts underneath became a very popular trend in the early 16th century. This style was adopted by various social classes as a touch of flirtation and intimacy.

Daily life

Early schooling focused on Latin and arithmetic

Rural schooling became nearly universal by the early 16th century, though attendance was low, focusing on Latin prayers and basic arithmetic skills.

Work

Daily work routine and waking up

Without clocks, rural households relied on a rooster to signal the start of the day; the wife would wake the family after the second or third crow, often as early as 4:00 AM. A full day's work for a farmer included plowing, sowing, harvesting, and threshing, while the mistress managed cooking, baking bread, and caring for livestock.

Music

Musical instruments at festivities

Instruments like the lute, harp, violin, and bagpipes were commonly used to accompany festivities, weddings, and parties at inns or manors.

At the table

Beer as everyday beverage

Beer was the main everyday beverage for many, often brewed domestically, while mead was also consumed, though less frequently than beer.

Getting around

Importance of River Transport

Because land roads were often muddy and difficult, river transport using various vessels was essential for long-distance travel and the movement of heavy goods across the Commonwealth.

What it cost

Purchasing power of weekly wages

For one week's wages, a laborer could purchase approximately 100 liters of beer or a pair of shoes, which cost 7 to 8 grossi.