The Paladin
The Paladin
In the 12th century, the Matter of France, a body of medieval literature and legendary material associated with the history of France, the word paladin first appears in the cycle Chanson de Geste (Old French for “Song of Heroic Deeds”). The cycle details the 8th century Frankish Emperor Charlemagne’s edict to dispel the Saracen after their invasion of Gaul.
Charlemagne’s court was home to the Twelve Peers: His foremost members. His military leader, Roland, was one of the twelve; a fearless warrior who bravely led his soldiers into battle. In 778 AD, during the Battle of Roncevaux, Roland selflessly gave his life. His story, and that of his peers, highlight the chivalry and heroism of what we have come to know as the first paladins.
After the publishing of the Chanson de Gest, romantic portrayals of paladins began to spread the world over, igniting a literary movement that includes the legends of King Arthur and countless others.
The Middle French word paladin originates from the Latin word palatinus, which when translated, means “of the palace”.
Over time, paladin came to refer to other high-level officials in the royal courts. Today, a paladin is defined as a knightly champion, often associated with a strong oath or commitment to a cause, typically involving justice, protection, and upholding good.
Our company name is a fitting tribute to the great paladins of the past. We believe our purpose is to champion the use of fountain pens and the act and art of handwriting, which have come eerily close to extinction with the invention and use of computers, tablets, and cell phones. We here at Paladin Pen Company are committed to our cause and wish to uphold good by providing products and services worthy of the name.
Legendary Tales Retold... In New and Elegant Forms
Greek Hoplites, Frankish Caballarii, Roman Legions, Slavic Vityaz, Islamic Furusiyya, British Knights, Nordic Vikings, Anglo-Saxon Huscarls, and Japanese Samurai are just a few of the historic titles for warrior classes who served the leaders of their regions, tribes, or monarchy’s. No matter their ethnic origins, their title, or their purpose for fighting, they were celebrated as mighty, brave, and courageous heroes in their native lands and beyond.
While the bloodshed and casualties caused by war itself have never been revered, romanticized, or deemed sophisticated, for those who find honor and virtue in the principles of loyalty and impassioned defense of ones values and beliefs, an unorthodox form of romance and sophistication is acknowledged and embraced.
Although centuries have passed since the advent of the paladin, heroic acts of loyalty and bravery continue to occur; often quietly and undetected, sometimes boldly and ostensibly, and always courageously.
Inspired by these honorable and altruistic qualities, Paladin Pen Company has adopted a creative direction and brand identity that elegantly incorporates the unconventional romance and unique sophistication of medieval nobility and knighthood into our products.
As we begin the development phase of each new product line, we dig deep into historic documents and texts to uncover legendary accounts of heroism, bravery, and courage. We then select one of these powerful stories to influence the design language for the entire line; aiming to evoke emotion by recounting it through the products themselves.
A Bit of Lore and So Much More
To assist in delivering an immersive writing experience with a stroke of whit and a whisper of whimsy, we’re utilizing naming conventions that pay homage to the restrained elegance and sophistication of the Middle Ages. Our pen designs, pen body and trim colors, and vibrant selection of inks depict infamous swords, historic regions like those found in the Frankish Kingdom at the time of Charlemagne’s reign, and imaginatively portray important events and circumstances of the period. Each product will transport you to a far away place when you read the story behind them. Just as our products tell a legendary tale, we believe the pens and inks you choose, along with the words you write, will someday tell a legendary tale about you.
