Chivalry: The Origins and History of the Orders of Knighthood

This book introduces the beginnings of the knighthood orders from its early years of mounted warriors and investigates the main western orders which have a connection in Britain – the Knights of St John (The Hospitallers or Knights of Malta), the Knights Templar (the Poor Soldiers of Christ), the Golden Fleece, the Roman Eagle, the Most Noble Order of the Garter – as well as summarising other significant orders of chivalry.

The author explores the history of each order from its foundation to its present day incarnation. He also looks at the cultural legacy of each order and the buildings and artefacts that remain today, as well as its connections with Masonry and its place in present day life. There is a growing interest in the history of chivalric orders and a desire to re-examine many of the myths that have blossomed with them. Researching these subjects in depth using primary resources – in many cases producing compelling evidence to contradict popular myth – Kevin Gest has produced the first informative survey of the orders of knighthood for the general reader, which will also be an invaluable reference for students and researchers.