Passage of arms refers to a ceremonial or chivalrous contest or competition between two or more opponents during the medieval period. It is an event where knights or warriors engage in combat or demonstrate their skills in a public setting, typically in an open space or a specially designated area, such as a jousting tournament or battlefield.
The term "passage of arms" originated from the French phrase "pas d'armes" which directly translates to "step of arms." It symbolizes the crossing or crossing paths of weapons and signifies the commencement of a battle or a clash.
In a passage of arms, participants would showcase their proficiency with various weapons, such as swords, polearms, or lances, in front of an audience. The event could encompass individual duels between knights or involve teams representing different regions, families, or factions. Typically, these encounters adhered to certain rules and regulations, emphasizing both skill and chivalry.
The passage of arms holds significant social and cultural importance, providing a platform for knights to display their bravery, prowess, and loyalty to their lords. It also served as a means of entertainment, attracting spectators who would witness feats of strength, strategies, and martial skills. Often organized as part of larger celebrations or festivals, the passage of arms contributed to the overall atmosphere of pageantry and festivity.
While passage of arms is a term mostly associated with medieval times, it may also refer to modern-day events or competitions inspired by historical traditions, such as recreations, reenactments, or tournaments.
