Yes, it’s who you think it is
You know the legend, but here it is from the plinth. You can’t be any more authoritative than a plinth:
The Legend of Lady Godiva
The earliest account of the legend is the Chronic of Roger of Wendover (c. 1057), which tells of Lady Godiva pleading with her husband, Leofric, Earl of Mercia, to repeal the heavy taxes on the people of Coventry. Growing tired of her pleas he eventually agreed to remove all taxes, if she rode through the town naked.
Lady Godiva’s horror at this request was overcome by her sympathy for the people of Coventry and their plight. Ordering all the people to stay indoors, and to keep the windows and doors barred, she rode through the silent streets of Coventry with only her long hair to cover her nudity.
One man, named Tom, dared to sneak a glance as she rode by. But, before he could gaze upon her, he was struck blind. This is thought to be the origin of the term ‘Peeping Tom’.
Having completed her ordeal, Leofric was true to his word and abolished the heavy taxes.
Although a legend, it has been recorded that in the reign of Edward I, no tolls were paid in Coventry except by those on horseback.
I always thought “I want the whole town to see my wife naked” was a weird flex.
Nobody had Pat Robertson or the Iron Sheik. I’d give good money to watch those two take the journey together.
Have a good weekend!
June 9, 2023 — 7:38 pm
Comments: 3