Synopsis
Dr Saul David investigates the violent medieval melee tournament. Unlike the better known joust, this was a brutal brawl with few rules.
- Programme: Timewatch
- Series: 2007-2008
- Episode: The Greatest Knight
- Channel: BBC Two
- Broadcast year: 2008
Licence: ERA Licence required
Free to watch for UK schools, colleges and universities with an ERA Licence
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Staff and students of licensed education establishments only
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