Originally published in 1802, this is an extensive history and analysis of the orders of knighthood in Europe, including the details of the orders' histories, hierarchies, insignia, and rituals. The first part of the book includes a critical essay on the value and meaning of chivalry as expressed in knighthood, while the second part examines the specific orders in detail. This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.