In the Middle Ages, it was important for everyone to dress and act according to their position in society. This intriguing new book describes the different manners and customs that were practiced by kings, knights, ladies, peasants, and religious officials - on the battlefield, in a monastery, at weddings, and at a funerals. Topics include - knights and chivalry - rules that noble youth had to follow when serving their lord and lady - books of manners - the tradition of monks and nuns eating in silence - wedding customs, such as the wedding ring and the bridal veil - the belief that women should be humble and obedient - rituals for pregnancy, birth, and birthdays - harvest celebrations - the tradition of the twelve days of Christmas and the burning of the yule log - superstitions about health and hygiene - burial rituals Teacher's guide available. "Crabtree's Medieval World series...feature(s) color illustrations that are photographs of archival medieval book and tapestry illustrations, with some original drawings skillfully done to blend in. There are also some photographs of medieval buildings. All illustrations are captioned, providing supplementary information to the text...(These) books would be appropriate for upper elementary students, particularly where medieval history forms part of the social studies curriculum."