Old Tavern Signs: An Excursion in the History of Hospitality

"Old Tavern Signs: An Excursion in the History of Hospitality" by Fritz Endell is a study of the cultural importance of tavern signs during a historical timeline. The book looks at how important tavern signs were to welcoming guests and shows how they impacted society. Endell starts by talking about what it means to be welcoming, beginning with the biblical story of Adam and Eve being forced into the world. He then shows how tavern signs became meaningful symbols of shelter and comfort. These signs invited people to come in, which became extremely important for travelers during ancient and medieval times. Endell points out how literature and art showed that giving shelter was seen as a sacred thing to do, which prepares the reader as he moves into talking about tavern signs.