Heraldry You will find this part of the Knighthood both interesting and challenging as you will design your own coat of arms. Before you start your design, you need a little background.

Heraldry a system of symbols used to represent individuals, families, countries, and sometimes, institutions. The basic symbol of heraldry is called a coat of arms which was originally used on the shields of knights.

Knights Because knights were so heavily clad in armor during battle, they carried shields and flags depicting their coat of arms. Recognition could work for or against a knight. – Sometimes the reputation of a certain knight would cause retreat, sometimes the feared knight would be rushed to turn the tide of the battle.

Heralds and artist By the 1200s, heraldry was firmly established. No two families could have the same coat of arms. Heralds – a group of men that kept track of the symbols used. Artist - commissioned to create coat of arms.

British Royal Family French Royal Family Kate Middleton’s William Shakespeare’s Alabama’s

Who’s is this??

Coat of Arms Challenge Your lord has issued you the task of designing the coat of arms for his family. Today you will research elements to incorporate into your coat of arms. Monday & Tuesday you will design the shield. You can choose as many elements as you wish to incorporate, but you are required to incorporate at least 5 (this includes the shield itself and the elements). The better you’re your coat of arms looks, the more pleased your Lord will be, and the more feudal farthings you will be rewarded DUE: Tuesday at the end of class!