Carole: A Study of a Medieval Dance

Taylor & Francis

The carole was the principal social dance in France and England from c.1100 to c.1400 and was frequently mentioned in French and English medieval literature, but has been widely misunderstood by contributors in recent citations in dictionaries and reference books, both linguistic and musical. Dr Robert Mullally's groundbreaking study establishes all the characteristics of this dance: etymological, choreographical, lyrical, musical and iconographical. > The carole was the principal social dance in France and England from c. 1100 to c. 1400 and was frequently mentioned in French and English medieval literature. However, it has been widely misunderstood by contributors in recent citations in dictionaries and reference books, both linguistic and musical. The carole was performed by all classes of society - kings and nobles, shepherds and servant girls. It is described as taking place both indoors and outdoors. Its central position in the life of the people is underlined by reference.