Of Knyghthode and Bataile

Of Knyghthode and Bataile is a fifteenth-century military manual translated into English verse by an anonymous poet. It is edited by Michael Livingston and Trevor Russell Smith from all four surviving manuscripts and presented with contextualizing introduction, notes, and glosses.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 180 pages
Publication date: 02 June 2021
Publisher: Medieval Institute Publications

Composed for King Henry VI in the midst of the Wars of the Roses, Of Knyghthode and Bataile is a remarkable adaptation of the most widely used military manual in the Middle Ages into English verse. Edited by Michael Livingston and Trevor Russell Smith from all four surviving manuscripts, this work is accompanied by a contextualizing introduction, extensive notes, and glosses. The anonymous poet, in response to the evolving nature of warfare and the historical backdrop of his own time, crafted what one critic has hailed as one of the most brilliant military poems of the fifteenth century.

The Wars of the Roses, a period of intense political and military conflict in England, lasted from 1455 to 1487. During this time, the English throne was contested between the Houses of Lancaster and York, with both sides seeking to claim the crown. The poem Of Knyghthode and Bataile was composed during this period, specifically for King Henry VI.

The poem is a military manual, written in the form of a poem. It provides instructions and strategies for warfare, including tactics, formations, and weaponry. The poem is believed to have been written by an anonymous poet, who was likely a military officer or a scholar of military history.

The poem is divided into two parts: Knyghthode, which deals with the theory of warfare, and Bataile, which provides practical instructions for military operations. The Knyghthode section explores the principles of strategy, tactics, and the nature of war. It discusses the importance of discipline, morale, and the use of intelligence in warfare. The Bataile section, on the other hand, provides detailed instructions for conducting battles, including the formation of troops, the deployment of weapons, and the execution of tactics.

One of the most notable features of Of Knyghthode and Bataile is its use of language. The poem is written in Middle English, which is a form of English that was spoken and written in England during the Middle Ages. The language is rich and descriptive, and it uses a variety of poetic devices to convey its message. The poem is also filled with metaphorical and symbolic language, which adds depth and complexity to its meaning.

Another important aspect of Of Knyghthode and Bataile is its historical significance. The poem was written during a period of intense warfare, and it provides valuable insights into the strategies and tactics used by medieval military forces. The poem is also a valuable source of information about the social and political context of the time, as it reflects the attitudes and values of the medieval aristocracy.

Of Knyghthode and Bataile has been widely studied and admired by scholars and historians for centuries. It has been praised for its literary merit, its historical significance, and its contribution to the understanding of medieval warfare. The poem has been translated into numerous languages, and it has been adapted into various forms, including plays, films, and television shows.

In conclusion, Of Knyghthode and Bataile is a remarkable work of literature that has had a lasting impact on the world. It is a testament to the power of poetry to convey complex ideas and emotions, and it is a valuable resource for scholars and historians interested in medieval warfare and the social and political context of the time. The poem's enduring popularity and significance demonstrate its ability to connect with audiences across generations.

Weight: 482g
Dimension: 210 x 261 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781580444767
Edition number: New ed