sympotioner

A sympotioner was a medieval term referring to a person who provided or managed symposia, which were banquets or drinking parties, often held in the evening. The role involved organizing the event, ensuring the availability of food and drink, and often providing entertainment. These symposia were not merely social gatherings but could also serve as occasions for intellectual discussion, political maneuvering, or business dealings.

The sympotioner's responsibilities could extend to selecting guests, arranging seating, and overseeing the service of various courses and beverages. In some contexts, the term might also imply someone who supplied the provisions for such events, acting as a caterer or purveyor of delicacies and wines. The specific duties and social standing of a sympotioner would vary depending on the wealth and status of the host and the nature of the symposium itself.

The practice of symposia has ancient roots, evolving through various cultures and time periods. In the medieval West, these gatherings reflected aristocratic or monastic traditions, where hospitality and communal feasting played significant roles. The sympotioner was thus an important figure in facilitating these social and cultural rituals, contributing to the smooth execution of elaborate and often lengthy celebrations.