Charlotte des Essarts

At the table

Preference for fermented drinks

Because water was considered unhealthy, common people preferred drinking wine, beer, or cider.

What people wore

A Parisian wine seller's attire, 1586

In 1586, a Parisian wine seller wore a loose jacket gathered by a leather belt from which a money bag hung, and narrow breeches with stockings held up by garters.

Getting around

Common travel methods in late 16th century

Travelers typically walked, rode horses or mules, or used rare public carriages operated by universities. Roads were often unmaintained and lacked suspension, making travel in heavy carts uncomfortable and slow.

What it cost

Cost of shoes

The cost of shoemaking, specifically a pair of shoes, ranged from 0.6 to 1.34 sols tournois during the 16th century.

Music

Sounds of daily life and festivals

While church music was restricted, bells rhythmically marked daily life, and loud instruments like oboes and bagpipes were used for village festivals and celebrations.

Daily life

Strict education and large families

Education in bourgeois families was strict, and children were often punished with a whip for petty offenses or bad language. Families were large, typically consisting of four to ten children who were taught to uphold family duties.