The lay-brothers
who worked and lived on the granges received more generous portions
than those staying at the abbey, and according to the twelfth-century
customs for the lay-brothers (Usus
Conversorum), they might receive an additional loaf of coarse
bread. In addition, they were not expected to observe as many fasts
as the monks.(35) Unlike their fellow
brethren who worked at the monasteries, the lay-brothers at the
granges did not enjoy ale or wine with their meals. This was forbidden
on the granges, in case it led to drunkenness which could result
in frivolity, fisticuffs or even fatalities. Not surprisingly, this
prohibition fuelled considerable discontent and sparked off several
revolts. The lay-brothers of Meaux
Abbey in Yorkshire, were so outraged by this ban that they attacked
their abbot and cellarer,
whom they pulled from his horse. The angry mob then pursued the
two officials for several miles.(36)
A humbling experience
There was trouble at Meaux Abbey c. 1220, when misdemeanours
committed by some of the lay-brothers who managed the granges
were made known to the abbot. Wishing to humble their pride,
he demoted these offenders who now had to look after the pigs
and cattle.
[Chronica Melsa, I, p. 432]
The lay-brothers gathered in the refectory at
the grange for dinner and also supper, if this was served. Neither
the shepherds nor the herdsmen returned for meals, but brought their
food with them to eat in the pastures at the appropriate time. The
shepherds were expected to return any leftover bread and were strictly
prohibited from accepting gifts of food, although they could, should
they wish, eat any berries or nuts that they found.(37)
The herdsmen of Clairvaux,
and no doubt those attached to other abbeys, received a more substantial
food allowance, on account of their hard labour and were permitted
a cooked dish to supplement the portion of bread.(38)