1. Heraldry

2. Introduction
In the epic poem King Frank and the Knights of the Eco-Quest – the narrators Harold and Haroldia are heralds.

3. Question 1
Why has the writer chosen the narrators to be heralds?

4. Because heralds were usually messengers for a king or queen and passed on information about the king’s wishes, about the kingdom or a special message to do with a battle.

5. Question 2
What is the history of heralds and heraldry?

6. In the 12th century helmets were developed that covered the head of the wearer. This meant that those fighting in battle couldn’t be recognised. In order to determine which side the person was fighting on – a knight, for example, would paint a design on the shield, on coats worn over armour (surcoats), on banners and often on the ‘bardings’ of warhorses. Identifying ‘crests’ were later added to the top of helmets. All these things helped to identify who the person’s family was, who their master was or who they were fighting for.

7. These designs were known as a ‘coat of arms’ and usually portrayed a shield, a helmet, a crest and two animals supporting the shield (known as ‘supporters’ – usually only the coat of arms of high-ranking persons), a ground on which it stood – known as ‘the compartment.’ And below that - a motto. In King Frank and the Knights of the Eco-Quest, the knight Alf is recognisable and indentified by the ‘coat of arms’ on his shield which carries a picture of his mum!

8. No knight could copy another knight’s coat of arms.
(Why? Identification in tournaments and battles)
It therefore became necessary to create a method to distinguish ally from enemy.
To prevent duplication – the copying of coats of arms – the design and regulation came under the authority of heralds who were often officers who ran tournaments.
The role of heralds later became one of making royal proclamations or bearing the messages between kings or queens, allies and enemies.

9. Tasks
Can you design a coat of arms?
Can you write a herald’s proclamation with information about the quest on which King Frank will send the three knights?