Are medieval minstrels jesters in training?

Answer 1

1st AnswerNo. Very few people could read or write in the middle ages. 2nd AnswerI have spent time researching both medieval education in general, and jesters in particular. I have found nothing specifically recorded about their education. It is clear, however, that at least some of them could read and write. This fact is known because certain jests that were historically recorded required that they read and write. One jester, for example, made alterations to his lord's papers, and then pointed out that the lord had signed things he should not have signed, giving special temporary authorities to the jester.

Jesters were chosen for their natural ability to improvise entertainment specifically relevant to the court within which they worked. They had to be able to fit in at the court of a king or highly placed lord. They would not be able to do this as merely funny illiterate serfs, but had to have the ability to integrate manners, news of current events, and such things as knowledge of their lord's family lineage, into their entertainment. Clearly, education was not necessary for this, but a proper background was, and education would have been an important benefit.

Answer 2

Medieval minstrels were not necessarily jesters-in-training. Minsterls traveled the countryside earning their living by entertaining, mostly by singing and playing instruments. Jesters entertained at court, usually by making witty observations, and juggling. and usually had a great deal of leeway in how they spoke to their patron.