Men of Iron

'Men of Iron' is a novel by the American author Howard Pyle, who also illustrated it. Set in the 15th century, it is a juvenile "coming of age" work in which a young squire, Myles Falworth, seeks not only to become a knight but to eventually redeem his father's honor. Once he obtains his knighthood, Myles begins to gain honor for himself by winning jousting matches and serving the Earl of Mackworth's brother in France. After returning home to England, Myles confronts and vanquishes a family enemy, the Earl of Alban, who had falsely accused Myles' father of treason.