How was the life of the shepherds of the middle ages?

Answer 1

Shepherds were among the very poorest people in medieval society, but their appearance changed over time just as every aspect of life changed during the very long medieval period.

In the 12th century, English shepherds generally wore a woollen tunic over hose (separate leg coverings, sometimes bound around with waxed cloth). Over these they wore a variety of cloaks, capes and hoods to keep out wind and rain. Ankle boots of turnshoe style were worn on the feet.

The distinguishing features of English shepherds were the crook, carried with the curve at the bottom, and a cow's horn for calling the flock and signalling danger to other shepherds.

Shepherds carried the crook the correct way (with the curve at the lower end) almost to the end of the middle ages; when it later became more a walking-stick than a functional tool it was turned so the curve was at the top. Shepherds have been carrying their crooks upside-down ever since.

The link below shows 12th century shepherds depicted in the Winchester Psalter of around 1160.

Answer 2

It was difficult, but you can

Answer 3

it wasnt easy!