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Main => The Round Table => Topic started by: Timothy on 2013-11-03, 08:29:22
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"In fact, he was such a man’s knight that it all went to his head, and he founded his own army of knights, attracting the fear and jealousy of the king himself. Yet despite this bold and reckless move, he was able to hold his place...."
This is a quote from the write up on William Marshal in the list of the top ten knights. Does anybody know what they are referring to with the whole quote and this phrase in particular "his own army of knights?
Thanks
Timothy
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I've not heard of that. Can you link the list?
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Hi Sir James,
it is posted.
Timothy
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If I am not mistaken, there was a period when Marshal was serving the younger king Henry and the two had a falling out. Both were very active on the tournament circuit and Marshal fielded his own team (though technically part of the young king's mensie). Because of his renown, he attracted the best knights to his banner. They were fond if shouting, "The Marshal! God is with the Marshal!" This was a twist on Henry's own battle cry and was viewed by a Marshal's enemies as a vieled slight to Henry. When reading these contemporary accounts, it's important to remember the Marshal attracted many enemies who were jealous of his prowess and patronage. He rose from nothing to become one of the greatest magnates of his day. His loyalty and prowess allowed him to leapfrog over many men who were surely envious.
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Thanks Sir Patrick,
Ok that may explain it. but the quote sounded like Marshal had a more sinister aim that just tournaments.
Timothy
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The only other thing I can think of ould be his resistance to king John regarding the layers attempt to siphon off his wife's estates in Ireland. Marshal's retainers actually scuffled with the baron John sent to take the estate. A bit of a defacto war between Marshal and John, though neither openly opposed the other. Some of the history in the post is a bit jumbled (see the comments section), so that may be part of the confusion.