This study provides a fresh way to understand Devon in the time of Raleigh and Drake.
 
Insults tell us much about society and offer a fascinating insight into Devon five centuries ago.
For the first time, a range of original documents have been examined to show how Devonians deployed a range of words and terms to ridicule, mock and demean their friends, family and neighbours.
 
Low intelligence, dishonesty, witchcraft, disease and most of all, illicit sex, were at the heart of how people in Devon were insulted.
 
Men were treated differently than women, those in authority had particular scorn, and physical insults were commonly deployed.
 
This is not a book for those who are easily offended.