The Tournament—Its Periods and Phases

The Tournament—Its Periods and Phases by R. Coltman Clephan is a detailed historical study of the evolution of tournaments tracing their origins development and eventual decline. The book examines how tournaments transitioned from early medieval martial exercises to grand chivalric spectacles deeply rooted in European aristocratic culture. Clephan explores the different types of tournaments including mêlées and jousts highlighting their rules armor weapons and the role of heraldry. He also discusses the influence of royal patronage and how tournaments reflected the social and political landscapes of their time.The book provides insights into the elaborate ceremonies pageantry and code of conduct that governed these events. As warfare evolved and firearms diminished the relevance of armored combat tournaments shifted from military training to theatrical displays of knightly prowess. Clephan's work is a valuable resource for historians and enthusiasts of medieval and Renaissance martial traditions offering a comprehensive look at how tournaments shaped European chivalry and military customs.