Rahere

died 1144

Rahere was a cleric and former court figure credited with founding St Bartholomew’s Priory and Hospital at Smithfield in 1123. His foundation became one of London’s longest-surviving hospitals and a major medieval religious institution.

The Witch’s Brat portrays Rahere as a former royal entertainer who recognises and supports the young healer Lovel. Rahere and the foundation are historical; Lovel and their personal relationship are fictional.