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The reredorters
The monks’ toilet block, known as the reredorter,
was conveniently placed at the far end of their dormitory, off the
southern range. The lay-brothers and guests had their own separate
latrine blocks. The reredorter ran over the drain so that
waste was carried away by running water. There were two doors to
the latrines, one to enter and one to leave, thereby ensuring one-way
traffic. Inside a line of privies was separated by screens, and
the monks sat on removable wooden seats. The brethren were allowed
to use the toilets whenever necessary but were expected to exercise
modesty at all times: they were to cover their faces with their
hoods, fold their hands in front of them and ensure that their cowls
reached the floor.
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