In the 12th century, the Matter of France, a body of medieval literature and legendary material associated with the history of France, the name 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 crusade to dispel the Umayyad after their invasion of Gaul and restore Christianity in the region.
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 led his soldiers into battle. In 778 AD, during the Battle of Roncevaux, Roland bravely 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 Paladin’s.
After the publishing of the Chanson de Gest, romantic portrayals of Paladin’s began to spread the world over, igniting a literary movement that included the legends of King Arthur and many others.
The Paladin
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 name is a creative ode to the great Paladin’s of the past. We believe our purpose is to champion the use of fountain pens and the art of handwriting, which has come eerily close to extinction with the invention 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 pen restorations worthy of the name.
If you would like to join our cause and become a “Pen Paladin” in the Legion of Legend, click the button below and join our e-mail list.
