25. Knights would wear a token of their affection on their sleeves before competing in a joust
The Middle Ages might have given us the expression ‘to wear one’s heart on one’s sleeve’. According to one legend – quite possibly true – knights would often tie ribbons around their arms whilst competing in jousting tournaments. Sometimes they would attach something of their favorite lady’s to this – perhaps a perfumed handkerchief, for example. This way, it was clear the knight was fighting for her honor – and for her heart.
