Page, Esquire, and Knight (Yesterday's Classics)
illustrations by
on Goodreads (6)
What’s inside...
Presents the best stories of all periods of chivalry, from the days of the founding of the Round Table to the death of Chevalier Bayard. It sets forth in simple story form the development and progress of knighthood from the time of St. George, who won his spurs by killing the dragon, to the founding, a thousand years later, of the order which bore his name and embodied in its ritual the highest ceremonial of chivalry. With its explanation of the meaning of the degrees of knighthood, its description of quests and tourneys, and its outline of the great events of chivalry, this volume will serve as a good introduction to the later reading of Arthurian and other romances, and of the history of Charlemagne's wars and the crusades.
Age
8-12
Length
152 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think it was like to live in the times of pages, esquires, and knights?
How do the characters in the book show bravery or courage?
What qualities make a good knight? Do you see any of these qualities in people today?
How do the challenges faced by the characters compare to challenges we face today?
If you could meet one of the characters, who would it be and what would you ask them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Ask your child to imagine and describe a day in the life of a page, esquire, or knight to deepen their connection with the historical context.
Encourage your child to compare their own experiences with those of the characters to foster empathy and understanding.
Discuss the moral decisions characters make in the story to enhance your child's critical thinking about right and wrong.
Invite your child to draw a scene from the book, focusing on details about the setting and costumes, to help visualize the historical period.
Use the book as a starting point to explore more about the historical period, looking up additional information or images together.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: Characters in the book frequently face challenges, but by continuously striving and not giving up, they achieve their goals.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson in their studies or while learning new skills, understanding that persistence leads to success.
Example Lesson: Value of bravery
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters show courage in various situations, teaching children the importance of being brave even when faced with adversity.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to face their fears, whether it's trying out for a sports team, standing up to a bully, or speaking in front of a class.
Example Lesson: The significance of loyalty and friendship
Explanation: Characters exhibit loyalty to their friends, often facing hardships to help one another, emphasizing the value of true friendship.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of supporting their friends in difficult times, fostering strong, trustworthy relationships.
Example Lesson: Respect for others
Explanation: Throughout the narrative, characters learn to respect others' differences and viewpoints, which is crucial in overcoming conflicts.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to appreciate diversity and practice empathy, improving their social interactions and understanding of others.