At Coucy's level, men and women hawked and hunted and carried a favorite falcon, hooded, on the wrist wherever they went, indoors or out-to church, to the assizes, to meals. On occasion, huge pastries were served from which live birds were released to be caught by hawks unleashed in the banquet
In the society described by Barbara W. Tuchman in "A Distant Mirror: The Calamitous 14th Century," men and women participated actively in the sport of falconry. They carried their prized falcons with them at all times, making it a prominent aspect of their daily life, whether they were attending church, legal gatherings, or enjoying meals. This shows how integral falconry was to their culture.
During lavish banquets, elaborate pastries were served that contained live birds, which were then released for the hawks to catch. This spectacle not only entertained guests but also highlighted the skills of both the falcons and their handlers, showcasing a mix of culinary artistry and hunting prowess typical of the era.
