- Oct 2024
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www.newadvent.org www.newadvent.org
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Now such like words or deeds wherein nothing further is sought than the soul's delight, are called playful or humorous. Hence it is necessary at times to make use of them, in order to give rest, as it were, to the soul.
It seems as though Thomas believes that there is a positive impact that can be taken away from divulging in games, and that has to mainly do with the soul. He tends to weave in different ideas in religious texts and words of people who contain lots of wisdom to form this idea that the soul of an individual needs to find delight in these kinds of games. He is essentially saying that words such as playful and humorous were invented so that individuals could discover different ways to create such strong or positive emotions that come from different activities. If playing some kind of medieval game creates "humor" or inspires "joy" in someone's heart, then it was a game that was meant to exist and be played by all.
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the-orb.arlima.net the-orb.arlima.net
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The horses too, in their own way, psych themselves up for the contest: "their limbs tremble; impatient of delay, they cannot stand still". When the starting signal is given, they leap forward and race off with as much speed and determination as they can muster. The riders, eager for glory and hoping for victory, try to outdo one another in using spurs, switches or cries of encouragement to urge the horses to go faster.
It is definitely interesting to explain how it even seemed like the horses themselves were quivering in excitement. It seems like the infectious energy that comes from these kinds of events affects everyone and everything! The time and energy that goes into planning and executing these medieval games has great effects, as individuals who wish to compete in future competitions spend lots of money investing in animals or objects that will benefit them in the end. Whether the horses are to lead chariots of have races of their own in "the starting gates," (Isidore of Seville, Etymologies 367) there are numerous different ways that they can be used as pieces of entertainment for these people, and it seems as though they feed into the energy (probably an effect from being bred to be stronger and faster).
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Every morning you can find those carrying on their various trades, those selling specific types of goods, and those who hire themselves out as labourers, each in their particular locations engaged in their tasks.
I really like this section, as it highlights the different kinds of people that were around during this time, and puts emphasis on their work lives. It brings to light how different people are from each other, which definitely can reflect their views on games and pastimes. Whether the opinion was that medieval games provided an outlet of energy and a way to relax or that these games were useless and did not teach any life lessons, it is relevant to connect these opinions to those who are giving them (Milliman 586). For example, an individual who sells goods all day might not want their young children to indulge in playing games, as it can be considered a waste of time, however, a different individual who sells different goods might think it is a good way to keep their children occupied whilst they are working.
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