BRIEF DISPLAY OF THE ORIGIN AND HISTORY OF ORDEALS; (AND A HISTORY OF DUELS)

This rare and splendidly reproduced book is a companion volume to Millington’s ‘History of Duelling’, and gives further insight into the history of the duel. The historical examination begins by looking at the origin and history of ordeals around the world, and the parallel development of the trial by single combat, which then developed into the duel. It also gives details of the civil right in the Middle Ages to claim the right to trial by single combat and the similar right in criminal law, whereby the accused could challenge the accuser to stand and fight, the winner being in the right legally.
The Court of Chivalry or Honour is described with its function and status in history, important in understanding the ethos surrounding these curious practices.
There is also a listing of no fewer that 172 famous duels, giving further details supplementing those in Millington, as well as the facts about other duels. This is a book which should not be missed by the enthusiast for duels, sword-fighting and the history of ordeals, chivalry and honour.