A considerable number of treatises on chivalry were written during the medieval period, but it was charny s astute practicality and realistic understanding of the warrior mentality and duty that set his work apart from other treatises. Of all published articles, the following were the most read within the past 12 months. Geoffroi of charny, a knights own book of chivalry, trad. A knights own book of chivalry isbn 9780812219098 pdf. Paper of exceptional interest for the light shed on the ethos, style, and tastes of the secular aristocracy of the later middle ages. He is the author of a number of books, including chivalry and violence in medieval europe. Niels tengberg, roskilde, roskilde universitetsforlag, 1996, 104 p. Other contemporary chronicles, nonnarrative evidence, and papal pronouncements cast light. His adult life coincided with the opening phase of the series of. Throughout his life he fought many battles for france. Thus it should appear to everyone that the best pastime of all is to be often in good company, far from unworthy men and from unworthy activities from which no good can come.
A considerable number of treatises on chivalry were written during the medieval period, but it was charnys astute practicality and realistic understanding of the warrior mentality and duty that set his work apart from other treatises. His adult life coincided with the opening phase of the series of anglofrench conflicts we call the hundred years war traditionally 371483. He prepared the book of chivalry as a guide for members of the company of the star, a new but shortlived order of knights created by jean ii of france in 52 to rival the english order of the. Coming from an illustrious family of french knights, he served king jean ii and provided the theoretical foundation the order of the star, meant to improve the combat reputation of french knights after the disaster of crecy in 46. Use features like bookmarks, note taking and highlighting while reading a knights own book of chivalry. Sir geoffroi was born of an important french family. Files are available under licenses specified on their description page. The treatise is intended to explain the appropriate qualities for a knight, reform the behavior of the fighting classes, and defend the chivalric ethos against its critics, mainly in clerical circles.
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