Heraldry

You will find this part of the Knighthood both interesting and challenging as you will design your own coat of arms. Before you start your

design, you need a little background.

Heraldry

• a system of symbols used to represent individuals, families, countries, and sometimes, institutions. The basic symbol of heraldry is called a coat of arms which was originally used on the shields of knights.

Knights

• Because knights were so heavily clad in armor during battle, they carried shields and flags depicting their coat of arms.

• Recognition could work for or against a knight.– Sometimes the reputation of a certain knight

would cause retreat, sometimes the feared knight would be rushed to turn the tide of the battle.

Heralds and artist

• By the 1200s, heraldry was firmly established.• No two families could have the same coat of

arms.• Heralds – a group of men that kept track of

the symbols used.• Artist - commissioned to create coat of arms.

British Royal Family

French Royal Family

Kate Middleton’s

William Shakespeare’s

Alabama’s

Who’s is this??

Coat of Arms Challenge

• Your lord has issued you the task of designing the coat of arms for his family. Today you will research elements to incorporate into your coat of arms. Monday & Tuesday you will design the shield. You can choose as many elements as you wish to incorporate, but you are required to incorporate at least 5 (this includes the shield itself and the elements). The better you’re your coat of arms looks, the more pleased your Lord will be, and the more feudal farthings you will be rewarded

• DUE: Tuesday at the end of class!