Ubiquitous in the fabric of our ancient churches, castles and houses, in documents, and on monuments and stained glass, heraldry represents a treasure-house of information for both the historian and genealogist, but one which often remains closed due to its apparent complexity and inaccessibility. This handbook presents the subject in plain English, explaining its origins and significance in the lives of noble families, the interpretation of heraldic devices, and the symbols themselves.