William Marshal, “the best knight who ever lived”

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18778/0208-6050.104.03

Keywords:

William Marshal, Middle Ages, chivarlic ethos, knights’ tournaments, Medieval literature

Abstract

The article shows the ideal of a knight at the times of William Marshal (the 2nd half of the 12th century – the beginning of the 13th century) treating one’s life as a calling and service and putting honour, bravery and courage at the first place. All the deeds of a knight are subordinate to the overriding principle of honourable behaviour. The greatest glory comes from the military deed, tournament victories, heroism at the battlefield and loyalty. With the course of time, William Marshal became known as an expert diplomat, administrator but also an able strategist and commander.

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Published

2019-08-30

How to Cite

Niewiński, A. (2019). William Marshal, “the best knight who ever lived”. Acta Universitatis Lodziensis. Folia Historica, (104), 21–45. https://doi.org/10.18778/0208-6050.104.03