Groom of the Stool
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The Groom of the Stool was a medieval English groom (i.e. a male servant) who had the task of cleaning the Monarch's rear after a bowel movement.[1]
In the early years of Henry VIII's reign, the title was awarded to minions of the King, court companions who spent time with him in the Privy Chamber. These were the sons of noblemen or important members of the gentry. In time they came to act as virtual personal secretaries to the King, carrying out a variety of administrative tasks within his private rooms. The position was an especially prized one, as it allowed one unobstructed access to the King's attention.
Sir Henry Norreys, a Groom of the Stool under Henry VIII, was executed for an alleged affair with Anne Boleyn.[2]
Henry's successor, King Edward VI, abolished the position.
A similar position, the Porte-coton existed at the French royal court.
[edit] References
- ^ http://www.channel4.com/history/microsites/W/worstjobs/tudor.html
- ^ http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,7-2004442076,00.html
[edit] See also
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