The role of the groom of the stool was highly prestigious and could provide the individual with significant influence and access to the king. This position was typically held by a trusted advisor or friend of the monarch, and it was considered a position of great honor and privilege.
“The groom of the stool was one of the most trusted and privileged positions in the royal court, providing the holder with direct access to the monarch and significant influence over the affairs of the kingdom.”
Dr. Sara Wolfson, Lecturer in Early Modern British History at the University of Oxford.
Over time, the role of the groom of the stool evolved to become more ceremonial, with less emphasis on personal care and hygiene. By the Tudor era in England, the position had become more of a status symbol than a practical role, and it was eventually abolished during the reign of Queen Victoria.
Dr. Laura Ashe, Associate Professor of English Literature at the University of Oxford.
“The groom of the stool was responsible for the most intimate and personal aspects of the king’s life, and was chosen for his loyalty, discretion, and ability to maintain the king’s dignity and comfort.”
it was one of the responsibilities of the groom of the stool to assist the king with his toileting needs, including wiping the king’s bottom.
This was considered a very intimate and personal duty, and it was performed in strict privacy. The groom of the stool was chosen for his trustworthiness, discretion, and ability to maintain the king’s dignity and comfort while carrying out this task.
It is important to note that this was a common practice in the royal courts of many countries during the medieval period, and it was considered a necessary part of personal care and hygiene for the monarch.
The specific duties of the groom of the stool varied depending on the time period and the preferences of the monarch. However, in general, the duties of the groom of the stool in medieval times included:
1. Assisting the king with dressing and undressing, including the application of clothing, shoes, and accessories.
2. Preparing the king’s baths, including filling the tub with water, heating the water, and adding scents and herbs as desired.
3. Assisting the king with his toileting needs, including helping him to use the chamber pot or toilet, and wiping his bottom.
4. Maintaining the king’s personal hygiene, including washing his face and hands, and trimming his hair and nails.
5. Accompanying the king on his travels, and ensuring that his personal items and clothing were properly packed and cared for.
6. Advising the king on matters of personal grooming and hygiene, including fashion, cosmetics, and skin care.
7. Managing the king’s personal finances and overseeing his personal possessions, including jewelry, clothing, and household items.
8. Serving as a confidante and trusted advisor to the king, and maintaining strict confidentiality and discretion regarding the king’s personal life and affairs.
It’s worth noting that the role of the groom of the stool evolved over time, and some of these duties became less prominent as the position became more ceremonial and less practical in nature.
Dr. Susan Doran, Professor of Early Modern British History at the University of Oxford.
“The groom of the stool was a highly sought-after position, as it provided the holder with access to the king’s private chambers and personal life, as well as significant political and social influence.”
Dr. James Daybell, Professor of Early Modern British History at the University of Plymouth.
“The groom of the stool was a symbol of the king’s power and prestige, and the holder of the position was often a close friend or relative of the monarch, chosen for his loyalty and trustworthiness.”
