Existing comment:
The Martial Hero
From its origins as a brutal reenactment of warfare, the tournament gradually developed into a variety of regulated mock combats in which contestants could measure and display their valor and skill in the use of various arms. Often performed in front of an audience and part of the customary celebrations of major events, these contests aided Maximilian in his campaign to be recognized as one of the greatest knights that ever lived.
Maximilian organized and participated in countless tournaments. He promoted unusual variants of the joust, which became fixtures at his court and contributed to his renown. Extraordinary forms of armor and mechanical devices were specially made to allow him to shine and prevail on momentous occasions.
To reinforce his claims to fame, Maximilian also commissioned chronicles of his knightly exploits. With the help of the printing press, then a relatively novel technology, he sought to make his heroic deeds known to a broad audience. |