12th century Occupations

Coding a 12th century medieval computer game, and I'd like 79 of the most important occupations in Europe, North Africa, Middle and Near East. Can anyone point me to a good resource?

Macoln, sorry about this Paul chap, we keep him as our court-jester, you know the funny guys with bells....or are that lepers?

Edited by Komnenos - 17-Jul-2006 at 17:31

Originally posted by macoln Thanks, that website is exactly what I needed. Are you the owner? If so, I was wondering if I could use the descriptions therein for flavour? Paul, that's hilarious, there's a villainous baron who I think might have such a one in his employ... :)

The monarchies of W. Europe, in a variety of degrees, were just starting to consolidate their power during the 12th c. Royal courts and ceremonial were as not developed yet as in, say, the 13th-14th centuries. So, in my oppinion, in the 12th c. you wouldn't have occupations as that of the herald or the court jester yet (the trobadours were actually the court entertainers). Marshals, Constables, Masters of the Horse etc. would be more appropriate. Also, you have to take into consideration regional diversity: in Constantinople and Baghdad, i.e., not only there was a complex court ceremonial, but it was accompanied with myriad positions of various importance.
It's a question of whether you're trying to be historically accurate in regards to the 12th c. or you're writing a generic medieval game in which case you can use whatever you like.