What did medieval kings do during the day?

When they were not engaged in expanding and consolidating their feudal power, a popular daytime activity among medieval kings was hunting. The skill of a king in hunting animals such as wild boars and bears was symbolically equated with his skill on the battlefield. It was a dangerous pastime, occasionally claiming lives.

Medieval kings also indulged in passive entertainments. Among the members of the king's court who served to amuse their sovereign were jesters. These were physical and verbal entertainers with skills in acrobatics, poetry and comedy. They were typically discovered by noblemen and recruited for the king's pleasure. Meanwhile, troubadours entertained the king with musical performances.