Abstract

This is a study on the change of the Medievalmen's underclothes. Underclothing includes all such articles, worn by either sex, as were completely or mainly concealed from the spectator by the external costume. Throughout the Middle Ages, the underclothing of both sexes possessed characteristic inherited from earlier times. Its function was purely utilitarian. It was not used to express class distinction and only very indirectly to enhance sex attraction. The idea of underclothes was associated with the idea of the body's sinfulness. Underclothes could also symbolize the discipline of humility. To appear clad only in underclothes was a voluntary form of selfabasement often practised by pilgrims. The notion that underclothes might express the spirit of the changing times, in sympathy with the outer clothing, did not enter the medieval mind. The length of the shirt was less than that of the modern garment, especially after the middle of the fourteenth century. The sleeves were somewhat full, without cuffs, and cut straight. During the second half of the twelfth century, when braies become definitely an undergarment. In the fourteenth century braies became shorter and shorter and the shirt could no longer be tucked in but hung outside over the thighs. After 1340 the costume on the surface somewhat resembling modern 'tights', began to reveal display the shape of the male leg as a form of sex attraction. By the close of the Middle Ages, braies had become less like loincloths, and more like modern bathing trunks. The peasant and laborer did not attempt to keep pace with the changes of fashion but, continued, as a rule, to wear the long braies of their forefathers. The higher ranks how this garment reflected the changes of the mode of outer costumes.

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