The lady of a medieval castle

I am the lady of a medieval castle. As a noblewoman,

I was married off to a local lord by my parents.
Marriage is not a love match. Instead it forges links
between important families, making them even more
important. My father provided gifts for me to take to
my new family. This was my “dowry”.
Once I was married, I became the lady of the castle.
I have to ensure the smooth running of the castle. I
am in charge of the stores, the baking, the brewing
and the running of the castle. I like to spin flax and
wool for thread with the other ladies. I am also
responsible for my daughter’s education, so that she
might too become a lady.
I must know how much money comes from the
estates, and arrange to live without debts. I know all
about the law. I must check the accounts the servants
bring me to ensure the financial situation of the castle
is a good one. I must know which crops should be
planted on the estates, and which fields are best.
 My husband, the lord, and I both throw feasts for
the important people of the surrounding area. These
feasts are held in the great hall. Our table stands
higher than the other tables. Wine, ale and mead wash
down the finest of meats, eaten by knife and spoon.
Very few people use plates, so food is served on large
slices of stale bread called trenchers. Musicians and
jesters are employed to entertain us and our guests.