Shields
A defensive and symbolic object central to medieval warfare and Arthurian romance.
Introduction#
Shields are among the most important objects in Arthurian literature. Beyond their practical military use, they function as symbols of identity, lineage, reputation, and disguise.
Knights may exchange shields, conceal them, decorate them with personal devices, or carry shields associated with quests, prophecies, or ladies. In romance literature, a shield often reveals as much about a knight as his name or sword.
Historical Background#
In medieval warfare, shields served both defensive and heraldic purposes.
By the High Middle Ages, shields commonly displayed coats of arms identifying:
– noble families
– kingdoms
– knightly lineages
– personal achievements
Heraldry became especially important in tournaments and battle, where fully armored knights could otherwise be difficult to distinguish.
Different shield shapes developed over time:
– round shields in earlier periods
– kite shields in the Norman era
– heater-shaped shields in the later Middle Ages
Arthurian romance reflects many of these historical developments.
Shields and Identity#
In Arthurian literature, shields frequently function as markers of identity.
Knights sometimes:
– conceal their shields to travel anonymously
– exchange shields with companions
– carry another knight’s arms temporarily
– or disguise themselves entirely through borrowed heraldry
A blank shield could signify a young knight who had not yet earned the right to bear arms of his own.
Shields also allowed recognition in battle and tournament, where heraldic devices revealed a knight’s lineage and reputation.
Shields and Courtly Love#
Shields are often associated with ladies and courtly devotion.
Some knights receive shields as gifts from noblewomen or carry devices connected to a beloved lady. Such shields could become symbols of loyalty, affection, or secret attachment.
One of the most famous examples concerns Lancelot and Elaine of Astolat. Lancelot left his own shield in Elaine’s care while borrowing another for a tournament. While tending the shield, Elaine learned Lancelot’s identity and deepened her love for him, eventually dying of sorrow after his rejection.
Magical and Symbolic Shields#
Arthurian romance also includes enchanted and symbolic shields.
Some bear prophetic imagery, religious symbols, magical protections, hidden meanings or accusations.
Morgan le Fay, for example, creates shields whose imagery carries veiled messages concerning Arthur, Guenevere, and Lancelot.
In other stories, shields become objects of quest or proof of worthiness.
Use in Combat#
Although primarily defensive, shields could also be used offensively during combat. Romances occasionally describe knights striking opponents with shields after losing or breaking their swords.
The shield therefore remained both a weapon and a symbol throughout Arthurian literature.
Sources#
Le Morte Darthur | Sir Thomas Malory, 1469-1470
Lancelot, or Le Chevalier de la Charrete | Chrétien de Troyes, late 12th century
