How Expensive Were Candles in the Middle Ages?

Watch the video about the use of candles in the Middle Ages, then test your understanding by answering the questions.

This video is about how expensive candles were in the Middle Ages. It explains that in the past, candles were not cheap and easy to get like today. Most people in the Middle Ages, especially farmers, used rushlights which were cheaper than candles but didn’t give very good light and smelled bad. Candles made from beeswax were much better, cleaner, and smelled nice, but they were very expensive. Only rich people like nobles and people in towns could afford them. The video also talks about how people made candles from different materials and how important light was in the Middle Ages, especially during the long winter nights.

Now answer these True or False questions about the video

Work with a partner to answer the following questions. You will have [X minutes] to discuss and write your answers and explanations. After that time, each pair will share their work with the class.

1). In the video, rushlights are described as smelling bad. Can you think of other things in the past that were useful but not very pleasant? (Broader historical context and discussion)
2). Imagine you lived in the Middle Ages. Would you rather use rushlights or try to save up for a beeswax candle? Why? (Personal preference, considering pros and cons)
3). Do you think the price of light in the Middle Ages affected people’s daily lives? How? (Impact of cost on daily life)
4). The video mentions that beeswax candles were for the rich. What modern items are only affordable for wealthy people today? (Comparison to modern equivalents)
5). Why do you think light was so important in the Middle Ages, especially in winter? (Importance of light in the past)
6). If you were a farmer in the Middle Ages, how would you feel about only being able to afford smelly rushlights? (Empathy and perspective-taking)
7). Do you think people in the Middle Ages valued light more than we do today? Why or why not? (Value comparison between past and present)
8). The video talks about different candle materials. What are some materials we use today to make light? (Connecting to modern light sources)
9). If candles were still very expensive today, how would your life be different? (Hypothetical scenario and its impact)
10). Some people might say that worrying about candle prices is not important compared to other problems in the Middle Ages, like disease or war. Do you agree or disagree? Why? (Prioritization and debate)

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