The success of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire novels and HBO's Game of Thrones series underscores the perennial popularity of medieval history - or rather “medievalism”, the idea of the Middle Ages. This book, written by an historian and medieval martial arts expert, explains how Martin's fantasy world reflects real history.

Table of Contents Acknowledgments Timeline Introduction 1. No True Knights: Chivalry in Myth and the Middle Ages 2. A Good Way to Survive a Battle: Armor in Westeros 3. Dragonsteel and Wildfire: Weapons in Westeros 4. “Stick them with the pointy end”: Fighting Arts in Westeros and the Middle Ages 5. The Wager of Battle: War, Duels and Tournaments 6. Down and Out in Westeros: The Economics of Feudal Warfare 7. Women Warriors of Westeros 8. Words and Swords: Conquest and Culture 9. A Medieval Atrocity Sourcebook Chapter Notes Further Reading Index

“Extremely informative and often entertaining...an erudite and well-written book...hits a welcome sweet spot on the spectrum from academia to popular writing. Thoroughly documented, filled with informative and interesting examples, never straying too far or for too long from the Game of Thrones series, clearly written and structured...an excellent example of recent books that straddle the world of academia and pop culture. Highly recommended”—Fantasy Literature; “It’s impressive that Mondschein manages to delve into each topic in so much detail...a fascinating read.... This survey of warfare in medieval Europe might just help you better appreciate Martin’s world-building”—Legendarium Media; “As inherently fascinating a read as it is informed and informative...will prove to be an enduringly popular addition to both community and academic library collections”—Midwest Book Review; “From steelmaking to sword physics, battle strategy to medieval economics, Ken Mondschein knows his knights. In his book, he applies lore of historical figures, European culture, armor diagrams, and cleverly-reasoned timelines to Game of Thrones, but does so much more: He blends an enormous scholarly knowledge of medievalism and personal armor expertise with wry humor and chatty modern analogies, creating a book both thorough and approachable. An impressive reference for fantasy fans and historians alike.”—Valerie Estelle Frankel, author of Women in Game of Thrones; “Mondschein has compiled a fascinating and well-researched study of medieval warfare in Game of Thrones, written in an accessible style. Chapters on feudalism, chivalric literature, and women in warfare make this an excellent teaching resource and perfect study guide for fans who want to know more about Martin's epic battle scenes. A cracking read.”—Jes Battis, co-author of Mastering the Game of Thrones.