An Introduction to the “Nine Worthies”

When it comes to chivalry , it was the “Nine Worthies,” who were used as examples for what it was like to showcases the ideal perception. These nine characters in history either appeared in scripture, myths, or were nearly legendary in their own right. Initially, the group was described during the early 14th century when Jacques de Longuyon wrote “Voeux du Paon” in 1312. This article highlights a bit of information regarding the figures known as the “Nine Worthies.”

The Nine Worthies were separated into triads when placed in categories, where the men were either viewed as models of chivalry in regards to a certain tradition (whether it was Christian or Jewish). It was Longuyon who developed the choices seen today, as they easily became a frequent theme used in other realms of art and literature throughout the Middle Ages. It didn’t take long before they became something of a permanent observation.

The Pagan Worthies include Hector, Alexander the Great, and Julius Caesar.

Alexander the Great (also known as Alexander III) was a Greek king that ruled over Macedon from 336 to 323 BC. In history, the man earned accolades for becoming one of the most successful military commanders of all time. When it comes to his battles , he led an undefeated record. By the time Alexander died, he successfully conquered the majority of the world that the ancient Greeks were aware of at the time.

3 Facts About Alexander the Great

1) Despite the outcry of his soldiers, Alexander had a habit of integrating foreigners into his army. He was known for encouraging the marriage between his soldiers and those from foreign lands, as he also took two foreign princesses as his wives. As of these actions, some scholars would give him credit for what was called a “policy of fusion.”

2) After twelve years of non-stop military campaigning, Alexander died. It is believed that he could have passed away due to typhoid fever, poisoning, malaria, viral encephalitis, or possibly as a result of alcohol abuse.

3) Alexander the Great is mentioned in Persian and Arabic traditional texts as “Dhul-Oarnayn,” which means “Two-Horned One” in Arabic. It is believed that a horn-headed figure that appeared on a collection of coins minted during his rule is the reasoning behind this reference.

Hector

Hector (the son of Priam and Hecuba) is a character of Greek mythology, which served as a Trojan prince and was referred to as one of the best fighters in the Trojan War. It is his courage and noble nature that leads to his inclusion on the list of the Nine Worthies.

3 Facts About Hector

1) Hector does not approve of war between the Greeks and the Trojans.

2) It is the Greek travel writer Pausanius (of mid-second century AD) who states that Thebes sent people to Troy in an effort to recover the bones of Hector.

3) When taking a look at a deck of French playing cards, it is Hector who is paid homage to as the face of the Jack of diamonds.