In this book, Trevor Cairns traces the evolution of the knight in Europe: from barbarian warrior to horseman-archer, through to the courtly knight as soldier and 'gentleman'. The author focuses on the medieval period when knights established themselves as a social and military class. He examines the training of knights, knights in peace and war, the crusades, chivalry and the feudal system. Through a variety of primary sources and a wealth of illustrations, the author reveals the myth and reality surrounding our image of the medieval knight.