Upon our arrival in London in early September 2023, we were greeted by a major heatwave. London’s streets shimmered in the heat, and the usual hustle and bustle of the urban landscape was accompanied by the palpable presence of the sun’s relentless warmth.
As we ventured through the historic streets and modern landmarks carrying water bottles with us, the scorching temperatures provided a unique backdrop to our London experience, adding an unexpected and memorable dimension to our visit, which was made even more unforgettable by the momentous occasion of the return of the Bartholomew Fair.
The Revival of Bartholomew Fair in 2023
The historic Bartholomew Fair returned to London’s Square Mile, offering a vibrant three-week celebration reminiscent of the centuries-old tradition. Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 31 August to 16 September 2023, London celebrated the 900th birthday of St. Bartholomew’s Hospital and Barts the Great church. The reimagined fair paid homage to its historic roots while embracing a diverse range of entertainment and creating a lively atmosphere during our time in London.
St. Bart’s the Back Story
From Jester to Monk
In 1133, King Henry I granted a charter establishing Bartholomew Fair to a monk named Rahere, who had previously served as Henry’s jester. The purpose of the fair was to raise funds for the Priory of St. Bartholomew, which Rahere had founded in 1123 after his spiritual awakening.
St. Bartholomew’s visitation to Rahere in a vision, instructing him to construct a priory in West Smithfield, adds a mystical and compelling dimension to Rahere’s narrative. This divine intervention underscores the transformative nature of Rahere’s spiritual awakening and emphasizes the profound impact of his transition from a jester to a devout monk. The multifaceted legacy that Rahere and St. Bartholomew bestowed upon London – encompassing the Bartholomew Fair, a hospital for convalescence, and the Priory of St. Bartholomew for spiritual solace – endures as a testament to their enduring influence on the city’s social
Rahere’s spiritual awakening led him to dedicate his life to religious pursuits. As for his transition from being King Henry’s jester to a monk who founded the Priory of St. Bartholomew, it represents a significant shift in his life, showcasing a profound change from a secular role to a deeply spiritual and religious calling. This transition likely involved a deep personal journey and a strong conviction to pursue a life of piety and service to the church.
The Bartholomew Fair held a practical and commercial importance in the region. Situated adjacent to Smithfield Market, which had its own charter granted to the City of London, the fair attracted drovers and dealers from across the country, who brought horses, cattle, sheep, and pigs to trade. It served as a bustling marketplace, offering a diverse range of goods and services for both local residents and visitors. This convergence of trade and commerce alongside the spiritual and charitable elements further enriched the multifaceted legacy of St. Bartholomew and Rahere in London.
The enduring legacy of the St. Bartholomew’s fair and the “Barts” hospital, despite the dissolution of the priory during the Reformation, is a testament to their resilience and lasting impact on London’s history.
The Power of Cultural Memory
St Bart’s Fair is a testament to the power of cultural memory within a society.
Through cultural memory, societies maintain a connection to their heritage, allowing for the transmission of values, knowledge, and experiences across generations. This continuity of memory serves to anchor communities amidst change, fostering a sense of belonging and providing a framework for understanding their place in the world. It also contributes to the preservation of cultural diversity and the appreciation of historical legacies.
The revival of the historic Bartholomew Fair in London, demonstrates how cultural memory plays a pivotal role in ensuring the celebration of centuries-old traditions continues to hold significance within the contemporary context.
https://ladybudd.com/2024/04/09/bartholomew-fair-returned-after-150-years/
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