Goodfellows, fellowettes and women urinating outside in the 1500s

Goodfellows

Goodfellows is a term historically used to refer to men who were considered good company, often involved in social or communal activities. The term fellow itself dates back to the Old English word feolaga, which means a partner or companion, particularly in the context of shared ventures or guilds. The prefix good suggests a positive connotation, implying someone who is not only a companion but also of good character and enjoyable company.

The term "goodfellow" appears in various historical texts, including Geoffrey Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales (late 14th century), where it denotes a man who is merry and well-liked by his peers. While the exact origins of "goodfellows" are not pinpointed to a specific event or text, its usage became common in describing men who were sociable and respected within their communities.

Fellowettes

The term fellowettes is less commonly found in historical records and seems to be a derivative of fellow, adapted to include women in the concept of companionship and camaraderie. During the 1500s, language began to evolve to reflect women's roles more explicitly in social contexts. However, it wasn't until later centuries that more gender-inclusive terms became standardized. The use of fellowettes can be seen as a linguistic attempt to parallel the term goodfellows for women, acknowledging their presence and contributions in social settings.

Historical Context of Women Urinating Outside

In the 1500s, the concept of privacy, particularly concerning bodily functions, was vastly different from modern standards. Public urination, for both men and women, was not uncommon due to the lack of indoor plumbing and the rudimentary state of public sanitation facilities.

Women urinating outside was a practical necessity. With limited access to private or indoor latrines, women often had to relieve themselves in public or semi-public spaces. This practice was influenced by several factors:

• Urban Infrastructure: Cities in the 1500s had basic sanitation facilities, with many relying on chamber pots that were emptied into the streets or communal areas. Public latrines, where they existed, were often overcrowded and unsanitary.
• Social Norms: While public urination was more socially acceptable due to necessity, women still faced social stigmas. They would often seek more discreet locations compared to men.
• Clothing: Women's clothing, which included long skirts and multiple layers, allowed for a certain level of modesty even when relieving themselves in less private settings.
• Rural Practices: In rural areas, it was common for people to use the natural environment for their needs, with designated spots near homes or in fields.

Cultural and Social Implications

The practice of public urination by women in the 1500s reflects broader social dynamics and gender roles. Women had to navigate the dual pressures of modesty and practicality, often adapting their behaviors to the constraints of their environment.

The use of the term fellowettes and its association with the more established goodfellows highlights an attempt, albeit rudimentary, to recognize women's roles in social spheres. While men could openly be "goodfellows" in taverns and public gatherings, women’s socialization was more private or community-based, often revolving around domestic and local community activities.

Evolution of Terms and Practices

As societies evolved, so did the language and infrastructure:

1. 18th and 19th Centuries: With the advent of more sophisticated plumbing and urban planning, the need for public urination decreased. Terms like "fellowettes" fell out of use as more formal and equal terminology developed.
2. Modern Times: Contemporary language reflects more gender-neutral terms, and public sanitation has vastly improved, reducing the necessity for such practices.

References

• Chaucer, G. (Late 14th century). The Canterbury Tales.
• Wogan-Browne, J., & Burgess, G. S. (1996). Medieval Women: Texts and Contexts in Late Medieval Britain.
• Woolgar, C. M. (2006). The Senses in Late Medieval England.
• Poos, L. R. (1991). A Rural Society after the Black Death: Essex, 1350-1525.
• Richardson, C. (2003). Household Objects: Mediation of Power and Identity.