The occupation of minstrel developed over several centuries. The term “minstrel” comes from the Latin word “ministerialis,” which means “servant” or “attendant.” In the early Middle Ages, minstrels were often employed by the aristocracy and served as entertainers and musicians at court. They were highly skilled in music, song, and dance and were often associated with chivalry and courtly love.
During the high Middle Ages, from the 11th to the 13th centuries, minstrels became more widespread and began to perform for a wider audience. They traveled from town to town, performing in marketplaces, taverns, and festivals. They were known for their ability to improvise songs and poems on the spot, often about current events or local personalities.
By the late Middle Ages, from the 14th to the 15th centuries, the role of the minstrel had changed. They were no longer simply entertainers but also had a social and political function. They were often employed by the nobility to spread propaganda and promote the interests of their patrons. Minstrels also played a role in the development of literature, as they were often the first to perform and popularize new works of poetry and song.