10 of the Most Celebrated Knights of the Medieval Ages

Knights of the Medieval Ages continue to fascinate people from around the world. Tales of their chivalry, battles, quests, betrayals, and intriguing, often eventful lives have become a legendary element in the history of many countries. These armored, often noble-born fighters, involved in countless power struggles, hold a fascinating spot in people’s imaginations as figures of great personal strength, power, prestige, and not always righteousness or justice. In this article, we’ll take a look at 10 Knights of the Medieval Age and their best-known deeds.

Featured Image Credit: Léo Schnug, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Geoffrey de Charny: The Quintessence of Chivalric Valor

Sir Geoffrey de Charny was a 14th-century French knight renowned for his chivalry, courage, and sense of honor. Born into a noble family around the year 1300, Charny became the Lord of Charny and was raised in the traditions of medieval knighthood. He began his journey as a squire, training in the art of combat, horsemanship, and the code of chivalry that was expected of a knight. Charny exemplified the ideals of honor, loyalty, and bravery that were associated with a knight’s life.

Sir Geoffrey de Charny distinguished himself on the battlefield through his military exploits and his unwavering commitment to his lord and country. He participated in numerous military campaigns and battles throughout his career, most notably serving in the Hundred Years’ War between England and France. Charny fought valiantly alongside King Philip VI of France at the Battle of Crécy in 1346, where he demonstrated great bravery and leadership despite being on the losing side. His actions in battle, even in the face of defeat, earned him respect and admiration from his peers.

One of Charny’s most notable achievements was his writing of A Knight’s Own Book of Chivalry. This was a manual on how to be a knight, detailing honor, courtesy, and skill in arms for young men who would become knights in Medieval society. He has been understood as “illustrating for us the mind of a knight of the Medieval age, aware of the ideals of chivalry and determined to live up to them.”

The end of Charny’s life was as tragic as his life was noble. During the Battle of Poitiers in 1356, Charny was fighting on the side of King John II of France. He was taken prisoner by the English and held for ransom. While Charny was in captivity, he was treated with respect and admiration, and his captors allowed him to continue his fundraising efforts for his release. However, he was not to live long enough to benefit from his efforts. In 1356, during a temporary truce, Charny was sent to Calais to collect his ransom. He was killed in a skirmish and never returned to his family.

Sir Geoffrey de Charny had a lasting impact on history. He was remembered as a true paragon of chivalry and a model of what a knight should be. His life and deeds inspired many knights and nobles of the time, and his writings on the code of chivalry would influence future generations. Charny’s dedication to the ideals of chivalry and his noble deeds ensured his place in history as one of the most notable knights of the Middle Ages. While there are no direct references to Charny in pop culture, his life and legacy continue to inspire works about medieval history and the age of knights.

Jean de Joinville: The Chronicler of Crusader Kings

Sir Jean de Joinville was a 13th-century French knight and chronicler, whose life and works offer a unique glimpse into the world of the medieval knight. Joinville was born around 1224 to a noble family in Champagne, France, and was educated in the skills and disciplines necessary for a knight, including horsemanship, weapons training, and the chivalric code.

He would go on to become a close companion of King Louis IX of France, a leader during the Seventh Crusade, and the author of the acclaimed chronicle, “The Life of Saint Louis.” Joinville’s life was one of adventure, chivalry, and duty, as he served his king and country in both war and peace. His chronicle of Saint Louis’s life remains an invaluable source of information on medieval France, the Crusades, and the values and beliefs of the medieval knight.

One of Joinville’s most significant achievements was his authorship of “The Life of Saint Louis,” a biography of his friend and liege, King Louis IX of France. This chronicle is a detailed account of the life and times of the king. It provides a wealth of information on the medieval world, including the character of Louis IX, the customs and practices of the time, and the political and social landscape of medieval Europe. Joinville’s account of the king’s life, as well as his own experiences as a knight and crusader, provides a vivid and valuable historical record of the medieval period.

In terms of his military career, Joinville was a renowned knight who participated in the Seventh Crusade, led by King Louis IX. He joined the king on his pilgrimage to the Holy Land and fought in various battles against the Saracens.

Joinville was known for his loyalty to his king and his skill and bravery in battle, as he fought valiantly alongside Louis IX during the crusade. His experiences and observations of the crusade, as well as the challenges and hardships faced by the knights of the Medieval Ages, are detailed in his chronicle of Saint Louis’s life.

One of the most notable anecdotes recounted in Joinville’s writings concerns an elephant that the Sultan of Egypt sent to Louis IX. Abul-Abbas, as he was called, fascinated the French court and made an indelible impression on Joinville, who described his appearance and demeanor in detail.

He continued to serve the crown of France in various offices under Louis IX’s successor, King Philip III. Joinville returned to France and ended his life as a pious man, becoming a member of the Trinitarian order, the Holy Brotherhood of the Redemption of Captives.

Joinville’s works have had a significant impact on culture, providing essential historical insights into the medieval world. His writings are not only valuable historical documents but also offer a rich source of information for understanding medieval society. Historians and medieval enthusiasts frequently study them for their detailed observations, personal anecdotes, and reflections on chivalry and faith. While Joinville may not be as directly influential in pop culture as some other historical figures, his chronicles are considered essential reading for those interested in the intricacies of medieval life and thought.

John Chandos: The Valiant Vanguard of King Edward’s Reign

Sir John Chandos was an English knight who lived during the 14th century and became renowned for his exceptional military skills, unwavering loyalty, and embodiment of chivalric virtues. Born around 1320 into a noble family, Chandos received a comprehensive education and training in the art of chivalry, preparing him for a life dedicated to knighthood. His early years were spent in the court of King Edward III, where he was immersed in the ideals of honor, courage, and loyalty.

Chandos’s life and career were marked by his involvement in various military campaigns, particularly in the Hundred Years’ War between England and France. He served under Edward, the Black Prince, and quickly established himself as a formidable commander. Chandos’s military prowess was demonstrated in numerous battles, most notably the Battle of Poitiers in 1356, where he led a portion of the English forces. Throughout the conflict, he showcased his tactical expertise and personal courage, earning him a reputation as one of the most valiant knights of his time.

His accomplishments were celebrated in both chronicles and poetry, cementing his status as a legendary figure in English history. Chandos’s loyalty to the Black Prince and his skill in leadership and strategy made him a key figure in English military campaigns, and his influence extended beyond the battlefield into cultural and literary appreciation of chivalric ideals.

Perhaps the most well-known anecdote about Chandos is the jousting incident involving Bertrand du Guesclin, another famous French knight of the time. During a truce between the two knights, they jousted against each other, with du Guesclin unhorsing Chandos. In a gesture of goodwill, du Guesclin allowed Chandos to borrow his horse to ride in the joust again. This incident is indicative of the respect knights of the Middle Ages showed one another.

Chandos’s most important service to his country was rendered during the Hundred Years’ War with France. He took an active part in all the military operations of that war, including the Battle of Nájera in 1367, in which he defeated a Castilian coalition in a famous engagement in support of Pedro the Cruel. Chandos’s military abilities and on-the-field leadership would mark his reputation as a fierce commander.

Chandos died of a spear wound in 1369, during a minor skirmish near Lussac. He was killed when he was defending the fortress of Mortemer against a French raid. He was regarded as one of the knights most noted for his chivalry and military skill by both the French and the English.

Sir John Chandos’s legacy lived on after his death. He was used to personify what a medieval knight should be: a loyal, brave, and honorable fighter. He may not be as influential in pop culture, but his name still stands out to historians and those captivated by the romantic tales of knights in the Middle Ages.

 Godfrey of Bouillon: The Crusader King of Jerusalem

 Godfrey of Bouillon was a legendary medieval French knight and warrior best known for his participation in the First Crusade and for founding the Kingdom of Jerusalem. Born around 1060 into the noble House of Bouillon, Godfrey’s early life was typical of the nobility of the time. He was knighted through the traditional process of training and service, becoming a skilled warrior and upholding the chivalric code of honor, courage, and martial prowess.

Godfrey’s most famous exploits occurred during the First Crusade, a military expedition to the Holy Land aimed at reclaiming it from Muslim rule. Godfrey led a force of Christian knights, nobles, and warriors on this campaign, demonstrating his military skill and strategic acumen. His leadership and strategic planning led to the successful siege of Jerusalem in 1099, which resulted in the establishment of the Kingdom of Jerusalem, with Godfrey as its first ruler.

One interesting detail is that, despite his successful campaign and the capture of Jerusalem, Godfrey is said to have remained humble. He reportedly refused to be called “king” and instead took the title of “Advocate of the Holy Sepulchre” as a sign of his piety and dedication to the Christian faith.

Godfrey’s death, however, occurred shortly after the victory in Jerusalem. He died in the Holy Land in 1100, only one year after the city had been captured. While there is some dispute about the cause of his death, his place in history as a key figure in the founding of the Kingdom of Jerusalem was already secure.

Godfrey of Bouillon holds significant cultural importance as a historical figure who epitomizes the ideals of chivalry, religious fervor, and selfless service during the medieval period. His role in the First Crusade and the capture of Jerusalem has cemented his place in history as a noble warrior whose actions had a lasting impact on the Holy Land. While there may not be any direct pop culture references to Godfrey, his legacy lives on in the countless works of historical fiction, literature, and media inspired by the medieval era and the legendary crusaders and knights.

John Hawkwood: The Mercenary Maestro of Medieval Italy

John Hawkwood was an English mercenary knight who lived in the medieval period and played a significant role in European history. Hawkwood is best known for his military exploits as a mercenary captain and his service in various armies throughout Italy, France, and Spain. He is remembered for his skill as a commander and his ability to adapt to the changing political and military landscape of the time. Despite his service to different nations and factions, Hawkwood is often remembered as a symbol of English nationalism and is considered one of the greatest knights of the Medieval Ages.

Hawkwood’s early life is not well-documented, but he is believed to have been born in England around 1320. He first went to Italy in the 1360s and became a renowned mercenary captain and a skilled knight of the Medieval Ages. Hawkwood’s most significant involvement as a mercenary was in Italy, where he spent the majority of his career. He fought for various city-states and factions, often serving as a condottiere, a mercenary leader. Hawkwood led a group of mercenary soldiers known as the “White Company” or “The White Hoods,” named for their white armor, and they were highly sought after for their military prowess.

The best-known of his deeds was for his service to Edward III and his son, the Black Prince, during the Hundred Years’ War between England and France. Hawkwood then worked for the Papacy in Italy against their common enemy, Charles IV, King of Naples and Holy Roman Emperor. From the papal service, he moved on to other employers in Italy, serving various signori, dukes, and other Italian city-states in the pay of one side or the other.

He was able to negotiate payment from both the French and the English, switching allegiances between them when it was to his advantage. Hawkwood was also able to work both sides of another divide, fighting for the Pope as a papal condottiero against the excommunicated Robert the Bruce, King of Scots, and yet also working for Bruce as a mercenary. He became renowned as a capable military commander, and his soldiers were well-disciplined and loyal.

In later life, Hawkwood was a condottiero, a leader of mercenaries for hire in the internal conflicts of the Italian city-states. He is best known for the service he rendered to Florence during the Italian Wars. Edward III knighted him, and he rose to prominence in the military campaigns of his time.

Hawkwood died in 1394 at the age of 70. His reputation as a military commander lived on, and he is remembered as a significant figure in the history of mercenary warfare in medieval Europe.

Culturally, Hawkwood is significant as an example of the mercenary warrior navigating the complex politics and warfare of medieval Europe for personal gain. His military skills and adaptability enabled him to serve multiple employers across diverse environments, and he became renowned for his effectiveness as a military leader. In terms of pop culture references, Hawkwood may not have any direct mentions. Still, his character as a mercenary captain would fit well in historical fiction, literature, and other media that explore themes of medieval warfare and the lives of soldiers in that era.

Jean III de Grailly: The Valiant Captal de Buch of the Hundred Years’ War

Sir Jean III de Grailly, also known as the Captal de Buch, was a Gascon knight during the Hundred Years’ War who embodied the values and ideals of knighthood. Born circa 1311 in France, Jean de Grailly’s early life would have been steeped in the traditions of knighthood, possibly involving martial training and an education befitting a nobleman of his family’s status. As the third son of Arnaud-Guilhem de Grailly, viscount of Buche, his elevated status was signified by his title, which recognized his noble lineage, his holdings, and his military command as a captain and commander.

Sir Jean de Grailly was known for his martial prowess and his steadfast loyalty to the English crown, qualities that were celebrated during his lifetime and which contributed to his chivalric reputation. His deeds on the battlefield, particularly his participation in the Battle of Poitiers in 1356, would have bolstered his standing and honor as a knight.

During the battle, de Grailly fought under the command of Edward, the Black Prince, and demonstrated his military acumen. His command of a contingent of knights on the right flank of the English army was crucial, as they flanked the French army and captured King John II and many nobles, a decisive moment that highlighted de Grailly’s leadership and valor.

He was captured at the Battle of Cocherel by the famous Bertrand du Guesclin. A year later, after his release, he changed sides to the French, where King Charles V of France made him the lord of Nemours. Not long after this, he switched sides yet again, going back to the English. In 1367, he accompanied the Black Prince on his expedition to Spain and took part in the Battle of Nájera. It was here that he came up against Bertrand du Guesclin yet again, this time as the latter’s prisoner.

One strange twist in de Grailly’s life was that he was captured by the French while trying to break a siege at Soumise. His captors were the son of King Charles V, who held him prisoner. De Grailly refused to be ransomed, since he was obliged by the terms of his ransom to take up arms against Edward the Black Prince.

Sir Jean III de Grailly met his end in 1377 while still in captivity. His life, though marked by the misfortune of his demise, remains a legacy of his unyielding dedication to the ideals of chivalry, loyalty, and military prowess.

In terms of cultural significance, de Grailly serves as a historical lens through which to explore the complex themes of loyalty and honor amidst the backdrop of conflict. His life story provides a window into the existence of medieval knights who found themselves at the heart of the shifting allegiances and rivalries of a pivotal era in history.

While it’s possible that there may not be direct references to de Grailly in popular culture, his involvement in the Hundred Years’ War and the War of the Two Peters has continued to be a source of inspiration for historical fiction, literature, and media that delve into the rich tapestry of medieval warfare and the chivalric values embodied by knights of the Medieval Ages.

Bertrand du Guesclin: The Unyielding Black Dog of Brittany

Bertrand du Guesclin was a famous medieval knight and is the hero of many legends. He was born in 1320 in Brittany, France, and died in 1380. Du Guesclin is renowned for being the Black Dog of Brittany, the Lion of Boisareau, and the last troubadour.

He started his life as a page and was knighted in his early teens. He then fought in several battles, becoming a commander of troops for King Charles V of France. Du Guesclin is most famous for his role in the Hundred Years’ War between England and France. He was a skilled strategist, and his most significant victory was at the Battle of Cocherel.

Du Guesclin was born around 1320 in Brittany, France, into a noble family. His childhood was spent in relative poverty, but he was given a chivalric education. At an early age, du Guesclin was sent to fight in the Hundred Years’ War between England and France. He proved himself to be a talented knight and was eventually promoted to the rank of captain.

The most interesting part of his childhood is that he was a broken knight, meaning his family disinherited him. He had very little money and was not allowed to fight as a knight. However, he was very skilled and eventually made a name for himself as a mercenary. Du Guesclin was very successful in his early life, winning many battles and becoming a popular figure.

Du Guesclin first rose to prominence during the Breton War of Succession, a long and bitter struggle over who should rule the Duchy of Brittany. Du Guesclin’s capture was a significant event in the Breton War of Succession. The capture of the Breton War of Succession had a major impact on the course of the war, as the French and Blois forces suffered a significant setback without du Guesclin’s leadership and were eventually defeated in the battle.

In addition, the capture of Charles of Blois also marked the end of the Breton War of Succession. During his imprisonment, du Guesclin’s reputation and fame did not diminish. He was still well-known and respected for his bravery and chivalry on the battlefield, even by his captors. Sir John Chandos, the English commander who had captured du Guesclin, treated him with respect and allowed him some degree of freedom during his imprisonment.

One of the most famous stories about du Guesclin is his capture of the legendary English knight Sir Henry of Trastámara. During a battle, du Guesclin recognized Henry and offered him a place in his own retinue, a gesture that reflected du Guesclin’s respect for chivalry, even in the heat of battle.

Du Guesclin’s most famous service to France was during his term as Constable of France. He fought valiantly to drive the English back and provided strong leadership to France and the French resistance. One of the key battles he fought in was the Battle of Auray, where he led the French forces.

Bertrand du Guesclin died in 1380 during a time when his help and leadership were still greatly needed by France. His death was mourned, and he became well known as a champion of French freedom and power and as a resister of foreign powers that attempted to invade the country.

Du Guesclin has a good presence in pop culture as a symbol of French power and bravery. While he may not be as widely known in pop culture as some other historical figures, his life and contributions to French history have inspired many works of literature, historical fiction, and media about the Hundred Years’ War and the French resistance.

Balian de Ibelin: Defender of Jerusalem

Balian de Ibelin was a knight during the Crusades and is considered one of the greatest knights of the era. He was born in 1143 to the Ibelin family in the Kingdom of Jerusalem. The Ibelins were a prominent and influential family in the Crusader states, and Balian’s upbringing was in line with the ideals and traditions of the Ibelin family. His noble lineage was a major influence on him and played a significant role in his development as a warrior, as is often the case with medieval-age knights. Growing up in a noble family in a war-torn region also shaped his outlook on life and his responsibilities as a knight.

As with most knights during the crusades, a good portion of his life became enshrouded in legend. Balian is often portrayed as the quintessential knight, the embodiment of chivalry and honor, who upheld the values of the medieval world: courage, loyalty, and respect.

As a diplomat and warrior, he was known for his military skills and diplomacy; however, some of these sources were produced during the Middle Ages, and others might have been distorted over time or by propaganda.

Maria Comnena was a Byzantine princess who had been previously married to Amalric I of Jerusalem and thus became Queen of Jerusalem. Maria was a descendant of the Byzantine emperor Manuel I Comnenus and also had legitimate claims to the throne of the Kingdom of Jerusalem through her first marriage. She and Balian married around 1177. This marriage furthered Balian’s political status within the kingdom, as he was now not only an integral part of the kingdom’s military defense but also closely associated with the ruling elite.

Balian is considered one of the greatest knights of the Medieval Ages in large part due to his performance during the Siege of Jerusalem in 1187. The situation for the Crusaders in the Holy Land had become dire by 1187. Muslim sultan Saladin had won several key victories and was now laying siege to Jerusalem. Many of the city’s noble defenders had either been killed or captured at the Battle of Hattin or in other conflicts. Balian had escaped that battle unscathed, but in Tyre, he had to hurriedly return to Jerusalem to try to prepare the city for its defense.

Accounts of the time claim that Balian and his wife had a strong relationship and were supportive of one another. This closeness between the couple became evident during the Siege of Jerusalem in 1187. After being defeated and having his wife and children captured, Balian had been granted safe conduct by Saladin to evacuate them to Tripoli. After reaching Jerusalem and seeing the disorganized state of the city’s defenses and the hopelessness of the population, Maria reportedly persuaded Balian to stay and fight for the city’s honor. In an age when political marriages were common, Balian and Maria Comnena have formed a truly respectful, mutually supportive partnership.

In Jerusalem, he found a place full of despair. Balian only had access to about 80 knights, and the city’s civilian population was unprepared to help in a fight. He took control of Jerusalem’s defenses and motivated the city’s population. Balian also created knights from the city’s bourgeoisie to prepare for the attack. The Sultan Saladin arrived at the walls of Jerusalem, and Balian’s strategy and defense of Jerusalem were enough to make Saladin treat with Balian. Although Jerusalem was later captured by Saladin, its Christian population was allowed to leave the city unharmed, in part due to Saladin’s respect for Balian.

Balian’s final years after the loss of Jerusalem were devoted to diplomacy and minor military operations. He remained active in the politics of the remaining Crusader states until his death around 1193. His final resting place is not known. His memory as a knight without peer and as the defender of Jerusalem endures.

As a historical figure, Balian of Ibelin’s story, like those of many others from this period, may have become more embellished over time. His legend was captured in pop culture recently. The most prominent treatment was probably in the Ridley Scott film “Kingdom of Heaven” in 2005, in which Orlando Bloom played him. It is not to be taken as strictly factual, but does showcase Balian and the time period to a global audience in the 21st century.

William Marshal: The Epitome of Medieval Knighthood

William Marshal, the “Greatest Knight” in the medieval world, was born in 1146 to a family of minor nobility. His early life prepared him for a long career full of chivalry, bravery, and, most importantly, loyalty. In fact, he was used as a hostage while his father, John Marshal, was under siege by King Stephen. King Stephen warned John that he would kill the young William using a trebuchet, to which John replied, “I have the hammer and anvil to make other sons.” Luckily for English history, young William was spared.

After beginning his knight training as a page and then squire for a cousin in Normandy at age 12, William’s fame grew over the next few years for his valor, skill, and reputation. One of the most colorful stories from his earlier life involved William unhorsing Richard the Lionheart in a skirmish, only to receive the prince’s praise instead of his wrath. For the next two decades, William’s fame from tournaments was unparalleled, making him a household name throughout the country.

Of course, tournaments only tell part of William’s story. In fact, he is most famous for serving four English kings – Henry II, Richard the Lionheart, John, and Henry III. It is hard to think of an English king in this period without thinking of William Marshal in one capacity or another. During a time of political unrest, with ever-changing alliances and constant battles, one thing never changed – the loyalty and skill of the Greatest Knight.

One of his most famous episodes was when he protected Eleanor of Aquitaine, the powerful queen mother, from her sons, who were to become King Richard. Richard attacked the castle where Eleanor was staying. Although heavily outnumbered, William held off Richard’s forces and protected the Queen.

He became renowned not just as a warrior, but also as a man of honor and a chivalrous knight.

During a conflict involving the de Lusignan family and Eleanor of Aquitaine, the steadfast loyalty and martial skill of William Marshal once again played a pivotal role. The backdrop of this particular incident in 1174 was a complex web of political machinations involving the de Lusignan family and Eleanor of Aquitaine, the Queen Mother of England.

Eleanor, the former wife of King Henry II of England, was traveling through her duchy when the de Lusignans, a powerful and ambitious family, attempted to seize her. This move was part of a broader regional power struggle and also aimed to create leverage against the English crown.

William Marshal, who was in the service of Eleanor at the time, found himself at the center of this historical drama. As Eleanor and her small escort neared the castle of Mirebeau, a place that offered her safety, they were pursued by the forces of the de Lusignans. Marshal, with a small contingent of knights, brilliantly executed a ruse that successfully distracted the pursuing troops.

Through a combination of strategic feints and an intimate knowledge of the terrain, William Marshal managed to delay and mislead the would-be captors long enough for Eleanor to reach the safety of the castle at Mirebeau. Marshal’s actions during this episode not only saved the Queen Mother from capture but also solidified his reputation as one of the most loyal and reliable knights of his time.

On his deathbed, Henry II had made his eldest son, also named Henry, promise that he would grant William Marshal the title of earl if the latter were to remain steadfast in his loyalty to the Crown. He kept his word, and in 1189, Richard I made him the Earl of Pembroke. This was a prestigious title to bestow on someone so early in their life. He had proven his loyalty and ability under four different kings: Henry II, Richard I, John, and Henry III.

By granting him such a lofty title, the Crown was able to trust him fully with much-needed patronage to maintain his continued support for the monarchy. William’s time had come, and he now sat among the highest in English society, a member of the peerage with a wealth and amount of land few could rival. It was also a marker of William’s importance to the Angevin dynasty. If a knight such as himself could be made Earl, it showed that William Marshal was one of the most important men in English politics and military affairs.

William Marshal was among the group of barons to oversee the drafting and proclamation of Magna Carta in 1215 during the reign of King John. William, along with a few other trusted barons, was put in charge of ruling in the minority of Henry III. He was given the title of Protector of the Realm and Regent of England.

In his old age, William, like so many of the English knights before him, continued to follow the code of chivalry to the letter. In 1219, Marshal fulfilled his pilgrimage to the Holy Land in the Seventh Crusade in honor of the church, his late friend, King John, and the popular religious fervor of the time. He was in his early seventies, and it was more of a ceremonial than a practical pilgrimage for the old knight; he did not take a fighting role in the wars but instead proved, as he always had, that he would not break a promise to the church.

When William Marshal died, he was one of the most legendary knights of medieval England. He set the standard for the chivalric code and what it meant to be a knight. His gravesite in the Temple Church in London was the only appropriate final resting place for the man who did so much for the English Crown.

Given his cultural importance, a significant number of historical studies have been written about William Marshal’s life, his role in medieval English history, and his legacy. William Marshal is the subject of The Pillars of the Earth, a historical novel by Ken Follett, and Knight’s Fee, by Rosemary Sutcliff. The History of William Marshal, the biography of William Marshal written a few years after his death, is the most useful primary source on knighthood and the medieval period in general. He is not as commonly featured in popular culture as some of his contemporaries, but any student of the history of the knights of medieval England will, at some point, come across the singular story of William Marshal.

We have written a couple of articles about some additional knights that did not make this list. If you enjoyed reading about these knights we recommend checking out the following Articles:
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