"Chivalry had its origins in the military revolution which made the mounted knight the spearhead of medieval armies, celebrating the brave deeds of brave men. It was not only a cohesive force among the European knightly class; it was also a major cultural influence inspiring some of the finest writing, art and architecture of the Middle Ages." "In this collection of essays, medieval historians appreciate the artefacts of the chivalric age and explore the nature of the society in which they were produced, the patrons who commissioned them and the ideals, both secular and religious, which inspired them."--BOOK JACKET.Title Summary field provided by Blackwell North America, Inc. All Rights Reserved