The often-cited image of the dark Middle Ages is closely linked to the notion that this era was characterized by excessive violence. From today's perspective, violence appears fundamentally negative and problematic: it must be justified and explained. This study takes a medieval perspective and examines how violence was described, interpreted, and understood by authors of the 14th and 15th centuries. Using late medieval France as an example, it illustrates which practices were considered acceptable or taboo and how specific patterns of representation could deliberately evoke enthusiasm or disgust.