Sir Lancelot Costume
Sir Lancelot is the greatest knight of King Arthur's court and one of the best-known characters in Arthurian legend. Famous for his courage, skill with a sword and complicated relationship with Queen Guinevere, Lancelot has been appearing in stories, poems and films for centuries.
A knight's costume also gives you plenty to play with. Chainmail, a surcoat, shield, sword and heraldic details can create anything from a relatively simple Halloween outfit to an elaborate medieval ensemble suitable for a Renaissance fair or serious cosplay.
And unlike some historical figures, you don't have to worry too much about getting every detail exactly right. Lancelot belongs to legend rather than documented medieval history, so there is plenty of room for imagination.
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Prepare for Camelot with our selection of knightly costumes, armour-inspired outfits and medieval accessories.
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Get into character: Bring Sir Lancelot to Life
Arthurian legend, knightly manners and a few words from Camelot
There is no single historical Lancelot. He is a character from Arthurian romance whose story developed through medieval literature, with some of his most famous adventures appearing in French romances of the 12th and 13th centuries.
A few things to know about Lancelot
- Lancelot is traditionally one of the Knights of the Round Table and is often described as the greatest of Arthur's knights.
- His famous love affair with Queen Guinevere is central to many versions of the legend.
- His story appears in medieval romances by writers including Chrétien de Troyes and in later Arthurian traditions.
- The Holy Grail becomes an important part of Lancelot's story in later versions, although his love for Guinevere prevents him from achieving the spiritual perfection associated with his son, Galahad.
- The name Camelot is strongly associated with King Arthur, although the precise location of any historical Arthur's court is unknown.
- Modern ideas about medieval knights often owe as much to Victorian art and modern cinema as they do to medieval sources.
Playing the part
Brave, honourable and fiercely loyal, Lancelot is the archetypal chivalrous knight. He takes his duties seriously, particularly when defending those he cares about, but his legendary romance with Guinevere adds a more complicated side to the character. Stand tall, speak with confidence and remember your knightly manners.
Finishing touches that elevate the look
- A surcoat bearing a heraldic emblem instantly creates the appearance of a medieval knight.
- A shield can make a relatively simple costume look much more impressive.
- A sword or sword belt adds character, although costume-safe props are the sensible choice for parties and conventions.
- Chainmail-style fabric or a padded gambeson can add considerably more realism than shiny plastic armour.
- For a more romantic Arthurian look, add a red cloak, heraldic detailing and a suitably noble expression.
And remember: a proper knight never enters a banquet, tournament or Halloween party without looking as though he has just returned from an important quest.
Image credit: Amy Thewamy, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
