[Hellsgate] Medieval Word of the Day

[Joe Simmons]

I almost forgot the word of the day.  Today's word is familiar to all of us, 
but may surprise a few in its definition.

FORK - Generally used as a preparatory and lifting implement in the kitchens 
and barnyards. The fork was completely disdained at table as foolish, 
foppish and un-necessaey. The fork was not accepted as culinary cutlery and 
a necessary part of the table/eating setting until the 17th century.  Until 
that time if there was a fork on the table it was used simply as a serving 
utensil to move a food item to the diners plate and it remained with the 
food item.  Elaborate use of the fingers, a spoon and the dagger allowed the 
diner the tactile pleasures of eating without the metallic intervention of 
the fork.