Peter Courtenay (KG) facts for kids
Sir Peter Courtenay (1346–1405) was a brave English knight. He was a skilled soldier and a famous jouster. A jouster was someone who fought in special contests on horseback with lances. Sir Peter also served King Richard II as his Chamberlain, which was an important role in the royal household. His main home was in a place called Hardington Mandeville in Somerset.
Early Life and Family
Sir Peter Courtenay was born in 1346. He was the fifth son of Hugh de Courtenay, 2nd Earl of Devon. His mother was Margaret de Bohun. The Courtenay family was very powerful and important in England during the Middle Ages.
Sir Peter had several older brothers who were also well-known. One brother, William Courtenay, became the Archbishop of Canterbury, a very high position in the church. Another brother, Sir Philip Courtenay, was also a knight and fought alongside Peter.
A Knight's Adventures
Sir Peter Courtenay became a knight in 1367. He was knighted by the famous Black Prince after a battle called the Battle of Najera. His brother Sir Philip was also knighted at the same time. This was a great honor for both of them.
In 1378, Sir Peter and his brother Sir Philip were on a naval trip. Their fleet was attacked by Spanish ships near the coast of Brittany. Both Sir Peter and Sir Philip were captured during this fight. They were later set free after two wealthy people from Bristol paid their ransom. A ransom is money paid to release someone who has been captured.
Later Life and Legacy
Sir Peter Courtenay married a woman named Margaret Clyvedon. He passed away on February 2, 1405. He was buried in Exeter Cathedral, a very old and grand church.
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In Exeter Cathedral, you can still see his monumental brass. This is a special metal plate set into the floor. It shows a full-length picture of Sir Peter wearing his armor, with his hands together in prayer. It's a bit worn down now, but it helps us remember him.
Around the brass, there used to be a Latin poem. An old writer named John Prince translated it into English. The poem says: "The Earl of Devonshire's son, Peter by name, Kin to the King, Lord Chamberlain of fame. Captain of Calais, for arms well approved; Who dying, was above the stars removed. And well beloved, went from the world away, To lead a blessed life in Heaven for aye."
This poem tells us that Sir Peter was the son of the Earl of Devon. It also mentions that he was related to the King and was a famous Chamberlain. It says he was a good soldier and was well-loved. The poem ends by saying that after he died, he went to live a blessed life in Heaven.
