Vassals, Knights, and the Code of Chivalry

Vassals, Knights, and the Code of Chivalry explores the rise of the medieval knight and the complex society that surrounded him. From the rituals of homage and fealty to the granting of fiefs, military service, childhood training, armor, horses, tournaments, and the brutal reality of battle, this book reveals how knighthood developed from a practical warrior profession into one of the most powerful social and cultural ideals of the Middle Ages.Along the way, readers will discover the fascinating contrast between the celebrated ideals of chivalry and the harsher realities of medieval warfare, including raiding, plunder, ransom, political rivalry, and violence against civilian communities. Courtly love, Arthurian literature, noble culture, heraldry, and the tournament field reveal another side of the knight: not simply a soldier, but a symbol of honor, lineage, loyalty, and aristocratic identity.Moreover, this third volume traces knights' transformation from mounted feudal warriors into courtiers, officers, landowners, and political figures as castles, monarchies, professional armies, and gunpowder gradually reshaped medieval Europe.

© 2026 Machain Santiago (Lydbog): 9798237241259

Udgivelsesdato

Lydbog: 9. oktober 2026