How three French knights organized a tournament which lasted for 30 days, taking on challengers from all over Europe. On the importance of tournaments for medieval aristocratic culture.
I recall reading that William Marshall actually found such tournaments rather profitable, was there any commentary about such things in connection with this tournament?
William Marshall (1147–1219) lived in a very different time, as far as tournaments are concerned. Back then tournaments were basically staged battles between two groups of knights. Knights could earn money for themselves by capturing opponents or their horses, like in real battles. But by late 14th century, jousting became the prevalent form of combat on tournaments, and there was no possibility to capture opponents and earn money this way. Though prizes were sometimes given out to knights who performed well and won tournaments.
I recall reading that William Marshall actually found such tournaments rather profitable, was there any commentary about such things in connection with this tournament?
William Marshall (1147–1219) lived in a very different time, as far as tournaments are concerned. Back then tournaments were basically staged battles between two groups of knights. Knights could earn money for themselves by capturing opponents or their horses, like in real battles. But by late 14th century, jousting became the prevalent form of combat on tournaments, and there was no possibility to capture opponents and earn money this way. Though prizes were sometimes given out to knights who performed well and won tournaments.
Thank you, that’s exactly what I was wondering about given the amount of time that had passed.
Love this - thanks so much for all the work you do!