Men of Iron

Men of Iron is set at the turn of the 14th Century in Medieval England, toward the end of the Middle Ages (approximately 500 AD-1500 AD). During this period, a single monarch ruled England, with nobles constituting the supportive roles of the ruling class under the King. These nobles varied in social status, material wealth, political influence, and their level of favor from the monarch. At the time, the King did not maintain an army sufficient enough to engage in large-scale warfare, whether it be foreign or domestic. One of the primary duties of a noble was to contribute to the defense of the King’s interests. The monarch relied on armies fed, supplied, and trained by nobles when in need of military aid. Noble houses, particularly castles and estates belonging to those of significant rank and power, were as much barracks and training facilities for soldiers as they were family homes and local institutions.

The most valued and respected members of the fighting class were knights, expert horsemen-warriors granted elevated rank based on their conduct, morality, and achievements. Knights were noble-born and customarily began as pages, advancing to the rank of squire before becoming eligible for knighthood. Like