The Medieval World

1
The Medieval World What can medieval seals and
badges tell us about political loyalties?
2
A knights seal from the early 13th century
What can you see?
helmet
shield
sword
destrier (war horse)
writing
additional shield
chain mail
trappings
surcoat
dragon
3
The writing on the seal is in Latin. It is also
back to front - Why do you think this is?
4
Here is how the seal would look in a mirror. Can
you work out what the words mean?
This Latin word means Seal
This Latin word means son of
5
Why do you think the knight has included a dragon
on his seal? Why do you think he has included the
shield of another man?
6
Identify the two animals shown below Which of
the two badges do you think was more valuable?
Badges of allegiance
7
Why would people wear these badges? Do you think
many people wore badges just like these?
The swan was the symbol of King Henry IV
(1399-1413)
The boar was the symbol of King Richard III
(1483-1485
8
A copy of the badge of the Order of the Garter
a very special honour set up by Edward III in 1348
Look closely - What can you see?
Shield of Edward IIIs son, the Black Prince
God and Jesus
Angel holding helmet
Motto of the Order of the Garter Hony Soyt Ke
Mal Y Pense
Kneeling Knight
Garter
9
The badge was made to be worn at the funeral of
the Black Prince. It is made from lead, a cheap
material.
Why would people have wanted to wear something
like this? Do you think many people would have
worn this badge?
10
Use the objects you have just studied to say
whether you agree with this statement Medieval
seals and badges show that knights were loyal to
the king
11

• Find out more about the Medieval world
• Visit the main Museum website
• www.britishmuseum.org
• Use Explore to look at some of our medieval
  objects
• www.britishmuseum.org/explore/introduction.aspx