The nine figures of âhistoryâ, known for their particular qualities of
prowess and
chivalry. The first iteration ofthe Worthies occurs in the 14th century, when the list comprised the following: Hector, Ceasar, Alexander Arthur, Charlemagne, Godfrey de Bouillon Joshua, David, Judas Maccabeus Later, French authors added a 10th worthy, Bertrand du Guesclin, but this addition did not take hold outside of France. Theworthies were a very popular shorthand for a sort of chivalric âhall of fameâ, an inspiration for poetry, romance, stained glasswindows, sculpture, tapestries and woodcuts.
