The Autobiography of Sir Götz Von Berlichingen

Book excerpt: Gottfried "Götz" von Berlichingen, the Knight of the Iron Hand, was one of the last great medieval knights of history. Born in the year 1480, Götz came of age in an era of great change, both in his native German lands and the wider world. The Reformation would fundamentally change the landscape of political power in Europe, and the ensuing wars would tear the continent apart. Yet, for a time, Götz' world remained true to its feudal history, and Götz himself participated in many feuds and conflicts. A good friend and a terrible enemy, Götz recalls how he fought and struggled in the internal politics of Germany, which pitted princes and lords against one another over land, titles, and wealth. He crosses paths (and sometimes swords) with other famous knights, esteemed princes, and, on more than one occasion, with the Holy Roman Emperor himself. Campaigning with the Imperial army abroad in France, Switzerland, and Hungary, he often survived on nothing more than his wits and his prowess in battle. His legacy as a folk hero lived on long after his death, inspiring Johann Wolfgang von Goethe to write a play based on his life, and becoming the namesake of the 17th SS-Panzergrenadier-Division "Götz von Berlichingen" in the Second World War. Before his death Götz von Berlichingen wrote down his unique story in an autobiographical account of one of Europe's most notable medieval knights. Translated from the original 1567 manuscript, Antelope Hill is proud to present The Autobiography of Sir Götz von Berlichingen, available for the first time ever to the English reader. Although politics and military technology may have changed since the time of this famous knight, one thing remains the same, that honor, bravery, and loyalty count for much, even for a man of humble beginnings.