One of the oldest songs in the English language comes from the Middle Ages. Based on the surviving manuscript of its lyrics, scholars have surmised that it dates to the third quarter of the 13th century. “Summer is a Cumin In” is a Middle English ode to the blooming season, to springing forth anew, and to the eventual harvest. It’s a rousing and romp-inspiring round that proves that medieval times were not only composed of dark ages. This virtual exhibit explores merriment in the Middle Ages through the era’s contemporaneous depictions of reveling—specifically, feasting—and illustrates a surprisingly civilized look at life. —C.J.F.