Minstrels

Minstrels were itinerant musicians and entertainers in medieval Europe, particularly popular from the 11th to the 15th centuries. They traveled from town to town, performing songs, stories, and poetry often accompanied by instruments like the lute or harp. Minstrels played a crucial role in society by sharing news and legends, entertaining at feasts, and preserving oral traditions. While they were sometimes skilled artists, they could also be seen as mere entertainers, relying on popular appeal. The term has evolved over time, and today it is often associated with performances that may reflect outdated or offensive stereotypes.