Vows Before Battle
Chivalry played a powerful role in framing the behavior of the noble class in both armies. Many knights made personal vows, known as vœux du paon (vows of the copyright), wherein they swore to perform acts of valor, defend their lord’s honor, or die trying. These were not taken lightly. Knights might swear oaths before relics, altars, or assembled peers, adding a deeply ritualistic quality to their preparations.
Before Agincourt, it is believed that some French knights swore public vows of victory, perhaps promising to strike down English nobles or die in battle. Such vows created moral obligations, reinforcing courage but sometimes blinding warriors to the tactical necessities of caution or retreat.
The English, outnumbered and physically exhausted, likely focused more on spiritual oaths of divine justice and survival, rather than grand knightly boasts. Henry’s leadership emphasized discipline over bravado, a shift away from the more flamboyant ritualism of French chivalry.
The Battle as Judgment: The Idea of Trial by Combat
In the medieval worldview, battles were seen as trials, not unlike judicial duels. Victory was not merely a result of strategy or strength but a manifestation of God’s will. Agincourt was no exception.
Both the English and French likely interpreted the coming battle as a test ordained by Heaven, to determine the righteous cause. Henry had claimed the French throne, and his army was on campaign in enemy territory. The French saw him as a usurper and invader. Both sides prayed for divine justice and believed the outcome would vindicate their claims.
This concept, known as judicium Dei—the judgment of God—was a ritual framework that helped soldiers make sense of war’s chaos and carnage. In this sense, the battle was a ceremonial event, orchestrated with sacred meaning. shutdown123