ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Confectionery in the English Renaissance

Okay kiddo, confectionery in the English Renaissance was all about sweets and treats that people ate for dessert or just to satisfy their sweet tooth. Imagine going to a candy store today, but it would be a little different back then because they didn't have all the same candies we have today.

Back in the English Renaissance, people would make yummy sweets like candied fruits, gingerbread, marzipan, and sugar sculptures. These sweets were often made by trained confectioners who were skilled in creating intricate designs and shapes.

They used sugar, which was very expensive back then, to make these sweets. Sugar was brought to England from places like the Caribbean and was considered a luxury item. So, only rich people could afford these fancy sweets.

But even if you weren't rich, you could still enjoy some confectionery treats. People would make simpler sweets at home like tarts, custards, and fruit preserves. These were still delicious and satisfying.

So, in short, confectionery in the English Renaissance was all about making fancy sweets with sugar and showing off your confectionery skills. But even regular folks could enjoy some sweet treats at home. Yum!