The Bawdy and Satirical World of the Goliards

Goliards were a group of medieval poets and musicians who flourished in the 12th to 14th centuries. They were known for their satirical and bawdy songs, which often poked fun at the church and the wealthy elite. The term "goliard" comes from the Latin word "garrulus," meaning "noisy" or "boisterous."

Goliards were often associated with universities and colleges, where they would perform their songs and poems for students and faculty. They were also known to travel from place to place, performing in taverns and other public spaces. Despite their reputation for ribaldry and satire, goliards were also respected for their literary skills and their ability to craft clever and memorable lyrics.

Some notable goliards include:

* Eustace the Monk, a 12th-century poet and musician who is often considered the first true goliard.
* Walter Map, a 12th-century writer and satirist who was known for his biting wit and his ability to mock the powerful.
* William Langland, a 14th-century poet who is best known for his long narrative poem "Piers Plowman," which features many goliardic themes and characters.

Overall, the goliards were an important part of medieval culture, using their poetry and music to comment on the social and political issues of their time. Their legacy can be seen in the many satirical and bawdy songs that have been passed down through the centuries, and in the continued popularity of their themes and styles in modern music and literature.