Jousting
Jousting is a competitive sport in which two armored combatants engage in armed—but not necessarily lethal—combat both on horseback and on foot. In addition to the iconic lance competition, combatants often use weapons such as swords, daggers, and battle-axes in subsequent rounds. Though the sport was created for entertainment, it was also used to settle battles or wars.
Fast Facts
- Origin: France, 1066
- Credited inventor: Godfrey de Preuilly
- Uses: Entertainment, political mediation
- Organized into a tournament of different competitors
- Goal: Disable, not kill, the opponent
- Divided into three rounds, each devoted to a single weapon
- First round, "tilting," features mounted charges with a lance
- Subsequent rounds vary in weaponry, but often include swords, daggers, and battle-axes
Medieval History
Though the rules and format of jousting tournaments were first invented by a Frenchman named Godfrey de Preuilly in 1066, documented tournaments didn't commonly appear until the 13th Century. The mock combat provided not only entertainment for commoners, but also allowed members of the nobility to hone their fighting skills.
Not a Bloodsport (Technically)
Though the goal of jousting is to subdue rather than kill your opponent, the real weapons and fierce combat make death a genuine possibility. Ironically, the inventor died during the first tournament.
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