[Jared Smith]

Those familiar with Tacitus' writings of Gaul will recognize that the possibility of a feast turning into a fight between guests was very real. Up until close to the 16th century, most people utilized a dagger that was essentially the same as a utility or small combat implement. According to the History Channel special called "Axes, Knives, and Swords" outbreaks of fights at dinners were a real concern throughout medieval ages. I am wondering if there are many late examples people know of medieval dinners turning into combat?

As background, the History Channel special made several statements. The dinner fork as a popular dinning implement is considered to have originated in 11th century Italy. Complete dining sets (spoons, knives and forks) were being produced during the 15th century. At some point in 1559, a monarch (thought it said King Louis ?? but am not sure) ordered that all of the dinner knives for a party have points rounded off and be dulled so as not to be overly dangerous. Guests were not to bring combat like implements to the dinner. The trend in dining flatware as we know it took over rapidly from there to present day times.