On the battlefield, the English archers played a decisive role. Their arrows flew so thickly that the French soldiers did not know which direction to defend. Step by step, the archers helped the English gain ground, weakening the French lines and causing confusion among their troops Chaos in the French Marshals’ Battle.
As the English men-at-arms observed the collapse of the French marshals’ forces and the disorder within the Duke of Normandy’s infantry, they mounted their horses, which had been kept ready nearby. Their morale was high, and they knew that the moment for a decisive strike had come.
Rallying Cry and Leadership
The soldiers shouted, “Saint George for Guienne!” signaling their determination. Lord John Chandos, one of the prince’s closest companions, encouraged the Black Prince:
“Sir, take your horse and ride forth. This day is yours. God is in your hands. Go to the French king’s battle, for there lies the heart of the matter. By his courage, he will not flee, and by God’s grace and Saint George, we shall capture him if we fight well. Sir, today I hope to see you act as a true knight Private Guided Ephesus Tours.”
The prince replied confidently:
“Let us go forth. You shall not see me return today without victory. Advance the banner in the name of God and Saint George!”
The banner-bearer followed the prince’s command, and the English prepared for a fierce and perilous battle.
The Prince Enters the Fight
As the Black Prince rode into the French lines, the fight grew intense. Many men were struck down, and those who fell could not easily be helped without significant effort from their comrades. The prince demonstrated bravery and skill, moving directly among the enemy and striking fear into them.
On his right, he noticed the body of Lord Robert of Duras, a French knight who had fallen with ten or twelve of his men around him. His banner lay beside him, marking the loss. The prince, showing respect even for his fallen enemies, said to two of his squires and three archers:
“Sirs, take the body of this knight on a targe and carry him to Poitiers. Present him to the Cardinal of Périgord and let him know I salute him with honor by this token.”
This act showed the prince’s nobility and sense of chivalry, even in the midst of battle.