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Heraldry (symbols
identifiable with individuals or families) originated as a way to identify
knights in battle or in tournaments. With the advent of the "great" or
"barrel" helm (ca. early 13th century) an individual's face became
concealed. It therefore became necessary to create a method to distinguish
ally from enemy.
Heraldic symbols ranged from simple geometric shapes such as chevrons,
to more elaborate drawings of real or mythological animals. As with the
honor of becoming a knight, heraldic insignia became hereditary, being
passed on from father to son, or with the family name. Eventually heraldic
symbols also came to signify kingdoms, duchies, or provinces as a medieval
forerunner to our modern national flags.
Heraldic symbols were often worn on the knight's surcoat (thus the term
"coat of arms"), shield, helmet, or on a banner (standard) that could
serve as a rallying point for knights and others scattered in the chaos of
battle. The standard was always to be elevated as long as the battle
continued, and therefore was guarded well. A standard taken down would
signal the allied combatants that the cause was lost and it was time to
flee the field of combat.
Today heraldry is usually associated with individual families' coat of
arms. Researching heraldry has become a hobby for many people. The art and
science of heraldry, with its medieval beginnings, is still alive and well
in our modern world.
   
Want more information on heraldry?
Introduction to Heraldry
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