The Last Duel

The Last Duel by Eric Jager is a riveting and atmospheric true story that transports readers to the tumultuous fourteenth century. The narrative centres on a gripping trial by combat between a knight and a squire, set against a backdrop of war, plague, and anarchy, interspersed with themes of honour, chivalry, and courtly love. The event, known as "the duel to end all duels," was a life-and-death struggle to determine which man's cause was right in God's sight.

On a cold December day in 1386, a massive crowd gathered at a monastery in Paris to witness this extraordinary duel. The spectacle was born out of a knight's accusation against a squire of violating his beautiful young wife—a charge that escalated into a public demand for justice. As the duel became inevitable, it attracted the attention of an entire nation, plunging all involved into a historical clash that would decide both honour and fate.

Eric Jager meticulously recounts the dramatic tale of the knight, the squire, and the lady involved, providing a richly detailed portrayal of their lives and the historical context that shaped this unforgettable event. The meticulous research positions this narrative within the broader history of France, shedding light on the intricacies of medieval judicial practices and the societal norms of the time.

This true story achieves new heights of suspense and scholarly insight, captivating readers with its blend of page-turning intensity and academic depth. Jager's authoritative account unearths the layers of this notorious quarrel, offering a detailed chronicle that had never before been fully explored.

The New York Times Bestseller

Now a major motion picture directed by Ridley Scott, starring Matt Damon, Adam Driver, and Jodie Comer, this tale has been vividly brought to life on the big screen, further cementing its place in history.

'Succeeds brilliantly in combining page-turning intensity with eye-opening insights' - Sunday Times

'Suspenseful and well written' - Spectator