Wiping the Ass of the English King — The Highly Coveted Job Among the Young Noblemen

The Groom of the Stool — A shitty job with royal benefits

King Henry VIII (left, image: Wikimedia Commons) and portable royal toilet known also as a stool (right, image: Wikimedia Commons)

In case you think your job sucks, let me assure you, it could be worse. Throughout history, there were jobs that would make you puke.

One of such grisly jobs was being a Groom of the Stool for the king of England. The Groom of the Stool was a person responsible for cleaning the king’s ass after he defecated.

Interestingly, being a Groom of the Stool was immensely desired. The king chose only men whom he trusted the most to be relaxed with while pooping.

The Groom of the Stool gives the phrase “Being an ass-kisser” completely new dimension, wouldn’t you agree?

The Groom of the Stool was the king’s best friend

Portable toilet used by the English kings (Image: ancient-origins.net)

Besides cleaning the king’s anus, the Groom of the Stool provided a bowl, water, and towels for the king. He also transported the king’s portable toilet (a.k.a. stool) wherever the king went.