A magisterial history of the origins, reality, and legend of the knight. Born out of the chaos of the early Middle Ages, the armored and highly mobile knight revolutionized warfare and quickly became a mythic figure in history. From the Knights Templars and English knighthood to the crusades and chivalry, The Knight in History, by acclaimed medievalist Frances Gies, bestselling coauthor of Life in a Medieval Castle, paints a remarkable true picture...

An illustrated introduction to knights describing their duties, training, armor, weapons, methods of warfare, and place in medieval society.

A comprehensive history of the Crusades that provides a detailed overview of the nine crusades fought between 1096 and 1272, along with other campaigns until 1571, and discusses the causes, participating empires, and significant events and individuals.

"Throughout Europe, medieval forces were either engaged in conflict or preparing for it through training. Arising from the need to keep the skills of warriors sharp and battle-ready, medieval jousting for knights on horseback became a widespread pastime. This book details how the culture of medieval tournaments arose around jousting and other games of combat, including both for the mounted cavalry (knights) and foot soldiers (in events such as melees)...

"An essential guide for all aspiring knights who dream of chivalrous glory and heroic quests."--