Knightly Memories: Remembering and Reinventing the Military Orders in Britain

This book is the first book-length study of the legacy and memory of the main military orders in Britain, the Templars and Knights of St. John, from the late 18th to the early 20th centuries. It examines the historiography of the Orders, material memory, revival and reinvention, and literary interpretations and identifies areas for further research and analysis.

Format: Hardback
Length: 114 pages
Publication date: 19 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This groundbreaking book is the first comprehensive exploration of the enduring legacy and memory of two of Britain's most influential military orders: the Templars and Knights of St. John. Spanning the late 18th to early 20th centuries, it employs previously overlooked sources to provide a comprehensive survey of these orders' historical significance.

The volume begins by delving into the historiography of the Orders, examining the authors, readership, accessibility, advertisements, and reviews that have shaped their understanding over time. It then explores the material memory of the Templars and Knights of St. John, examining the physical remnants of their presence, such as the Temple Church in London and St. John's Gate in Clerkenwell.

Furthermore, the book uncovers the truth behind the claims of continuity with the medieval knights made by the Masonic Knights Templars following the loss of Malta in 1798 and the foundation of the British Order based in Clerkenwell. It sheds light on the myths and misconceptions surrounding these orders and offers a fresh perspective on their history.

In addition to examining the historical and material aspects of the Orders, the book also considers various literary interpretations of their history. It explores how popular fiction, as well as historical accounts, have influenced the public's perception and memory of these military orders.

This book is a valuable resource for scholars and students of the Military Orders and Crusades, as well as for general readers interested in the history of memory and reception. It sheds new light on the enduring legacy of these historical figures and provides insights into the complex interplay between history, myth, and popular culture.

Weight: 390g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032011189