An Unwelcome Arrival in Europe
The fork was introduced to Europe in the 11th century by Byzantine princess Theodora Doukaina, who married Domenico Selvo, a Venetian nobleman. At a banquet, she shocked guests by using a small, two-pronged utensil to eat, which was considered extravagant and unnecessary.
Religious Condemnation
The fork’s arrival was met with hostility from the Church. Clergy viewed it as an affront to divine will, arguing that hands, created by God, were the only proper tools for eating. Some even labeled the fork a “tool of the devil,” associating its pronged design with Satan’s pitchfork.
Hygiene Concerns
Beyond morality, others criticized the fork as unhygienic, believing it could not be properly cleaned. This fueled skepticism and delayed its adoption. It remained rare in Europe, used only by the aristocracy or royalty, until the Renaissance.
A Gradual Acceptance
brought them to France upon marrying King Henry II. Their spread continued across Europe, becoming a staple in dining etiquette by the 18th century. Today, the fork is indispensable worldwide.
When the fork first arrived in Europe in the 11th century, it sparked outrage. Introduced by Byzantine princess Theodora Doukaina during her Venetian wedding feast, this small, two-pronged utensil was condemned as unnecessary, immoral, and even diabolical by many. pic.twitter.com/JAB0uMI1En
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