In the 1960s and '70s, Ewart Oakeshott wrote five books about various aspects of Knights for younger readers. Revised and re-released in the 1990s by Dufour Editions, these slim, portable volumes are all easily absorbed and yet substantive enough for the adult. They're also witty and enjoyable. All are equally worthwhile, and the list below presents them in alphabetical order by subject.
A Knight and His Armor
What would a knight be without his armor -- and how long could he last in battle without proper defense? Oakeshott examines the making of mail and plate, how armor developed, the helm, shield and spurs, and how armor was worn. Extensively illustrated with a bibliography and glossary of armor terms.
A Knight in Battle
Engaging in battle is how the knight earned his keep. To illustrate variations across the centuries in tactics and fighting methods, Oakeshott focuses on four little-known battles: Arsuf (1191), Lincoln (1217), Mauron (1352) and Marignano (1515). Illustrations include maps and battle diagrams; glossary covers individuals of note as well as battle terminology.A Knight and His Castle
The castle was a significant strategic element in medieval warfare. Oakeshott covers knights and squires in the castle as well as castle buildings, and he looks at the castle under siege. Illustrations depict parts of a castle and famous castle keeps. Includes a concise and informative glossary of castle terms.A Knight and His Horse
Being a "mounted warrior" is part of what defines a knight. Oakeshott discusses what the medieval warhorse was like, the saddle, bridle and horse, the tournament, and tournament armor. Also includes a glossary, a bibliography, and appendices on monetary values and the weight of armor.A Knight and His Weapons
The knight's proficiency with a variety of weapons was essential to his role as a defender of society. Oakeshott surveys the most common weapons, which he divides up into 1) spear and lance, 2) axe, mace and hammer, 3) sword and dagger and 4) early firearms. He addresses their evolution and history, as well as how they were used, and offers numerous illustrations of individual weapons and sketches of their use in combat. Also includes a glossary of weapons and related terminology.