Jousting in the Renaissance

The first mention of the "martial games" known as jousting is recorded in chronicles from the 11th century (Clephan 1). Jousting, referred to generally as "Hastiludia or spear play," was only one of numerous popular martial games in the Middle Ages (Clephan 2). The skills and techniques involved in jousting were initially used in combat but ultimately became a tournament sport for entertainment for wealthy nobility during the Renaissance. This analysis will discuss the history of jousting during these two periods.

In Knights at Tournament, Christopher Gravett traces the history of jousting from its use in warfare to its rise in popularity as a martial game in tournaments during the Renaissance and became known as "The Sport of Kings," because of the rich nobles who could afford to engage in such games and the fact that even kings participated in jousting tournaments (Gravett 7). Jousting typically consists of two mounted riders carrying a pointed-edged lance made of solid wood and riding at each other at full spee

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Category: History - J