The ‘Fool’ is a character in Morris dancing and other English folk dances. Typically, the ‘Fool’ is depicted as a jester. Historically, jesters were performers who provided entertainment in royal and noble households. In Morris dancing, the ‘Fool’ communicates with the audience during performances using speech or mime, and sometimes provides amusement and comedy while trying to distract or encourage the other dancers. The ‘Fool’ often dresses in strange or comedic costume and holds a stick with a carved head or inflated bladder (or modern equivalent, such as a balloon) at the end.
References: English Folk Dance and Song Society, “Beginners’ Guides: English Folk Costume”, English Folk Dance and Song Society website, accessed 16/07/2025.
Oxford English Dictionary, “fool”, Oxford English Dictionary website, accessed 16/07/2025.
The Morris Ring, “Fools and Beasts”, The Morris Ring website, accessed 16/07/2025.
Wikipedia, “Jester”, Wikipedia website, accessed 16/07/2025.
Wikipedia, “Morris dance”, Wikipedia website, accessed 16/07/2025.
This is part of the Series: GAY01/09 Counties; within the Collection: GAY01 John Gay Collection
© Historic England Archive
Photographer: Gay, John
Courtyard, Custom And Tradition, People