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Knights: In History and Legend
Written by an international team of historians and scholars with specialized knowledge of the medieval era and illustrated with sumptuous images ranging from manuscript illuminations and PreRaphaelite paintings to photographs of authentic armor, swords, and castles, plus maps and a timeline, this book is at once a detailed history of knights and a chronicle of their cultural creations and legacy.
This vividly written and lavishly illustrated large hardcover reference volume describes the origins of knighthood, the training and lifestyles of knights, and the vital role these warriors played in medieval military campaigns. It also explains heraldry and the various military and honorific orders of knighthood, and examines the portrayal of knights and literature and art.
This vividly written and lavishly illustrated large hardcover reference volume describes the origins of knighthood, the training and lifestyles of knights, and the vital role these warriors played in medieval military campaigns. It also explains heraldry and the various military and honorific orders of knighthood, and examines the portrayal of knights and literature and art.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2009
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127 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
February 14, 2018
A great overall historical piece that give readers a broad discussion on not only a knight's in history but also on the ideals they professed. Going between historical facts and the interpretations of modern scholars this books is an excellent addition to any medieval historian's library.
June 2, 2019
The images and photos are amazing, and a bit terrifying considering the things displayed in them. The castles are astounding, even the ones that have not been maintained as well! I may have to read the text later for more info. The pictures are distracting, though.
April 29, 2019
Excellent broad strokes over a considerable timeline. Be warned you may end up adding a bunch of other works to your reading and viewing lists.
May 11, 2025
An interesting read and the visuals were great! Learnt a lot about knights, albeit some parts were a little bit repetitive. Still, for one who likes knights the book was a good source of information.
March 6, 2013
This is the best history text I have ever picked up. It is an entire course on knights summarized in this easy-to-read, visually-stunning book. It covers various cultures, time periods, and characteristics of knights, such as a dedicated chapter about weapon development.
The writers have a very keen eye for patterns that cycle throughout history, and they introduce the reader to them in the context of knighthood. One of my favourite quotes comes from this book - it's about how extreme gestures are a sign of decline in an idea, age, or society.
If you couldn't stand your high school history teacher and shy away from the subject of history, try this book.
The writers have a very keen eye for patterns that cycle throughout history, and they introduce the reader to them in the context of knighthood. One of my favourite quotes comes from this book - it's about how extreme gestures are a sign of decline in an idea, age, or society.
If you couldn't stand your high school history teacher and shy away from the subject of history, try this book.
May 5, 2014
The Bible of all encyclopedias on this subject! The pictures and illustrations are fabulous! And the accompanying text is in an easy to read, easy to understand format.
The Chief Consultant for this book (project) was Constance Brittain Bouchard. Currently, she is Distinguished Professor of Medieval History at the University of Akron, which is just a few short miles down the road from here.
The Chief Consultant for this book (project) was Constance Brittain Bouchard. Currently, she is Distinguished Professor of Medieval History at the University of Akron, which is just a few short miles down the road from here.
February 5, 2011
A great read, beautifully illustrated with lots of info on the history of knights as well as their legendary place in film and literature. The book is written for the everyday medieval fan and is recommended for anyone who enjoys that period.
February 26, 2013
Read it for a history class I had and its very well written and illustrated, but almost too simplistic for the class I had to read it for. Covers the basics which is good for anyone wanting to learn more about knights!
July 1, 2014
Well written and easy to read. Presents a nice history of knighthood but then for some reason moves to focusing more on the Crusades and other military campaigns in Europe. Didn't seem to flow. Still a good read.
July 29, 2010
This is a very excellent, detailed book that goes deep into the history of knighthood and all it entails, right up to our present-day fascination with knights.
May 31, 2011
This is a wonderful book about knights. Lots of indepth information. Beautiful pictures.
March 4, 2016
Very interesting. Lots of information and beautiful illustrations about knights, chivalry, medieval life, etc. A good read and a good look.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews