An Interview with Drogo the Jest

By Maria Rodriguez

If you’ve ever wanted to take a trip back in time to visit the Middle Ages, Saturday April 16 from 1-5 is your chance. It’s the Medieval Society’s biggest annual event. With tables of activities, and entertainment throughout the day, it’s sure to be an exciting afternoon. This year, Medieval Day will feature an exciting addition; a court jester. The Tower sat down with the Jester to find out a little more on him, and what attendees can expect.

Tell us a little about what this Medieval Day is and what you’ll be doing during it.

“What is Medieval Day? ‘Tis but your typical festival! There will be displays of strength, musical prowess, craftsmanship, et alia! There will be laughter, excitement, talent…disappointment, embarrassment, shame, exile, regret…What was the question? Oh! There will be a live chess game, iconography, Arabic poetry, even riddles! And, of course, I will be there. What more could you want?”

So, do you have a name?

“Do you mean what is it that I call myself or what do other people call me? Because I’ve been called many names…Some memorable, some cruel, some brutally honest. I have gone by Randy Randolph, Hubris McSquee, Wumbo, Wibil d’Tibil, Jessie, Jermaine, Cynthia, Karen from Finance…the list goes on. Presently, I am Drogo.”

How do you like our campus so far?

“‘Tis a marvelous campus, most pleasing to the body and soul! ‘Tis plague-free too! You cannot get much better than that.”

Do you have any special tricks that you’ll be performing?

“Is the King of England French? Or is the King of France English? You may never know…”

What are you looking forward to most during this Medieval Day?

“Well, I was looking forward to the live witch hunt, but I was told that would be a rather problematic exhibition. Which is a shame; that is where Drogo gets his tips! I suppose the live catapult shooting of the Holy Hand Grenade of Antioch over Mullen will be entertaining enough.”

How did you decide to pursue a trade as a Jester?

“Some things are so sad and tragic that they’re best not to be remembered. My falling into professional buffoonery is one of these.”

Have you done many of these sorts of outdoor festival-like events before?

“Yes! A festival is a festival! Drogo is a most experienced jester, in all fields, and this Pryz yard is just like any other.”

What can we expect to see you in…dirty peasant rags? or something more particular?

“I will don a most gaudy garb, of which the value is indeterminate. You shall not miss me!”

What should attendees expect to take away from this Medieval Day?

“Please refrain from taking anything away from Medieval Day. Much of what we have is rented.”