What did people in the middle ages throw at the bride and groom eggs

What did people in the Middle Ages throw at the bride and groom? Eggs

In the Middle Ages, weddings were often accompanied by many unique traditions and customs. One peculiar tradition that took place during medieval wedding celebrations involved throwing eggs at the newlywed couple. This practice was believed to ensure fertility and good luck for the couple’s future together.

During the Middle Ages, eggs were seen as a symbol of new life and fertility. Hence, it became customary for wedding guests to throw eggs at the bride and groom as a way to bless them with fertility and prosperity in their marriage. This tradition was especially prevalent in Europe and was followed in many communities.

While throwing eggs at the bride and groom may seem unusual to us now, it was considered a joyful and festive act during medieval times. The throwing of eggs symbolized the showering of blessings upon the couple, offering them hope for a happy and fruitful union. This practice allowed guests to actively participate in the celebration while expressing their well wishes for the newlyweds.

The eggs used in these festive traditions were often hard-boiled or emptied of their contents. This was done to prevent any unnecessary mess or damage to the bride’s beautiful wedding attire. Guests would aim to hit the couple with the eggs while they made their way down the aisle or during the post-wedding festivities.

It’s worth noting that the throwing of eggs was not limited to just the wedding ceremony itself. This tradition extended to other joyous occasions, including carnivals and festivals, where eggs were also thrown to symbolize the arrival of spring, new beginnings, and fertility.

Despite the seemingly light-hearted nature of this tradition, caution had to be exercised during such festivities. Eggs could still cause some harm if thrown too forcefully or at close range. To ensure everyone’s safety, guests often threw the eggs gently towards the happy couple, minimizing the risk of accidents while maintaining the spirit of the tradition.

In conclusion, the act of throwing eggs at the bride and groom during weddings in the Middle Ages was a unique and symbolic tradition. It represented the wishes for fertility, prosperity, and happiness in their married life. This joyful custom allowed guests to actively participate in the celebration while blessing the newlyweds, fostering a sense of communal joy and well-being.