The Medieval Tournament as Spectacle
This video discusses the medieval tournament as a spectacle, focusing on jousts, tourneys, and pas d'armes between 1100 and 1600. Speakers Alan Murray, Karen Watts, and Martyn Lawrence, from the Royal Armouries, delve into how these events evolved from military training to elaborate displays of chivalry, often incorporating theatrical elements. They highlight the social and economic significance of tournaments, the diverse forms they took across Europe (e.g., Tudor 'Joust Royal', Burgundian 'pas d'armes', Imperial jousts), and the inherent dangers despite sophisticated armor. The video also promotes a book on the subject with a special discount code and encourages viewers to subscribe for more content on arms and armor.






