In the popular imagination, there can be no more archetypal symbol of the Middle Ages than that of the knight. The origins of knights are unknown, but their heyday was between the 10th and 15th centuries. Indeed the knighthood reached its pinnacle of splendor in the 12th and 13th centuries during the crusades. Later it was the rise of the musket and harquebus rang the death knell of knights on the battlefield.

The format of"Medieval Knights" follows that of other popular titles in the series. Each of the 22 color plates features a battle scene, or items of knight armor and weapons that are of particular interest. The accomplished artwork is produced by the author, which means that they present all pertinent details. The color plates are accompanied by detailed text that describes the development of the knightly orders, and some of the battles they fought in. Such famous characters as Richard the Lionheart, Alfonso VIII, The Black Prince, Joan of Arc, all make their appearance, as do such famous battles as those of Bannockburn, Tannenberg, and Agincourt. There is further informative detail included on mythical knights, the Order of the Templar and knights from particular nations like Germany or Italy.

Tracing knights from their early origins, through their famous battles, this book is full of fascinating and useful information. They were certainly much more than heavily armored men riding on horses, as this book correctly points out. For those wishing to increase their knowledge of this interesting era, then this book is a logical solution. The combination of color artwork and incisive text makes it a winning formula.