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.

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.

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.

• HistoricEnterprises.com: Arms and Armour

• American Jousting Alliance: Jousting Equipment WARNING: Does not deep link

• SwordsOfHonor.com: Armor Pieces, Helmets & Shields

• eBay: Jousting Merchandise

• • This page was created by Lori M, a Part Time Guide in the Mahalo Greenhouse (see the original), and curated by Ken.

• If you'd like to help us create the best spam free search results on the Internet, apply to be a Part Time Guide!</em>