"The Saturnalian licentiousness which is then permitted is called Decembrian, because it was customary of old among the pagans that during this month slaves and serving-maids should have a sort of liberty given them, and should be put upon an equality with their masters, in celebrating a common festivity."
The Church and the authorities were never happy with this bawdy, drunken festival and The Feast of Fools was officially forbidden by The Council of Basel in 1431.
