Cornelia Logemann | Auerbach Lectures 11.05.2026
Augenschmaus und Tafelfreuden
Zur Choreographie des Festmahls im 14. Jahrhundert
Abstract
Whether it was the opulent celebrations held at the papal court in Avignon in 1317 or the elaborate banquet held in 1378 at his nephew’s French court in honour of the Emperor, these events have been recorded for posterity in accounts that are both highly detailed and carefully crafted. These reports offer an ideal insight into events whose choreography and material trappings were likely many times more complex. Spectacular displays and ceremonial vessels on the one hand, and interior décor on the other, play a central role in the staging of these events. The festive banquet was an excellent opportunity to address the public through media of communication (chronicles, images). Participation in the event itself, however, was reserved for the few – these events were too costly and elaborate, and exclusivity is an integral part of this social institution. Yet this exclusivity is only effective if it can be displayed. The filtering of information between semi-public and public spaces takes place in many different ways, as this article aims to demonstrate.
The presentation will be given in German.
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Location & Time
Library Erich Auerbach Institute, Weyertal 59 (back building, 3rd floor), 50937 Cologne
Montag, 18.05.2026 | 18:00 Uhr
Contact
Maximilian Kloppert
E-Mail: m.kloppert(at)uni-koeln(dot)de