Has the role of rituals in medieval politics been exaggerated?

Examining the intersection of politics and ritual in Norman and Angevin England, this seminar paper highlights the challenges of applying modern concepts to historical contexts. It emphasizes the need for caution when interpreting the roles of ritual in political life, proposing a provisional definition of politics as the processes through which community decisions are made and communicated. The analysis reflects on the complexities of these terms, providing insights into the political culture of the Middle Ages and Early Modern Age.