The
revolting custom of urinating at table did not decline with the Roman Empire. Indeed,
in Iceland in the 16th century it had become compulsory. One can
only pity the women of the household…
Neither is it lawful for anyone to rise from the table to make water;
but for this purpose the daughter of the house, or another maid or woman,
attendeth always at the table, watchful if any one beckon to them; to him that
beckoneth she gives the chamber-pot under the table with her own hands; the
rest in the meanwhile grunt like swine least any noise be heard. The water
being poured out, he washeth the basin, and offereth his services to him that
is willing; and he is accounteth uncivill who abhorreth this fashion.
(Dittmar Bleecken – Voyage to Iceland and
Greenland 1565)
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