Retinue

A retinue (O. Fr. retenue, from retenir, Lat. retenere, hold back, retain) is a body of persons "retained" in the service of a noble or royal personage, a suite of "retainers."

Related Topics:
Noble - Royal

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Such retainers were not necessarily in the domestic service of their lord, but all wore his "livery" (a kind of uniform, in distinctive colours) and claimed his protection, such as musicians and private teachers.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Some were a source of trouble and abuse in the 15th and early 16th century (see maintenance).

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Sometimes used in the context meaning the supporters/followers of a Medieval knight.

Related Topics:
Medieval - Knight

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~