Lunchtime Talk: Sweet Queens and Kings

Join this Christmas-themed talk for a light-hearted look at the influence of monarchs on our Christmas food traditions. Kings and queens are not known for rolling up their sleeves in the kitchen but nonetheless their impact on our sweet treats over the centuries is fascinating. This talk explores the Forme of Cury cookbook compiled by the chefs of King Richard II in the 1390s and, moving forward in time, will cover traditional sweets such as shortbread, gingerbread, marzipan and more. As well as being a tasty treat, many of these had diplomatic value to monarchs such as Mary Queen of Scots, Elizabeth I and James I & VI. At least one of the Christmas foods caused unrest and even riots while a possible shortage of dried fruit threatened to do the same. Discover why there is more to our Christmas sweets than a moment of pleasure. About the speaker: Louise Grainger is a member of the City of London Guide Lecturers Association (as a City of London Green Badge Guide). What to expect: • The talk will last approximately 45-50 minutes followed by Q&A. IMPORTANT: This talk will be taking place in-person only at The London Archives. About The London Archives: The London Archives is a free public archive focusing on the history of London, from 1067 to the present day. We preserve and share millions of historical manuscripts, maps, photographs, books which tell the story of the city. Everyone is welcome. You can find us in central London in Clerkenwell, close to Farringdon Station - details on our Getting to The London Archives webpage.