Knights in the Middle Ages

Knight

Knights were members of a group of men educated in chivalry who fought on horseback during the Middle Ages. Originally, knights were the mounted warriors of the great feudal lords, also known as vassals, who helped protect their lord's lands from invaders. They usually shared a bond with their lord, often swearing loyalty to each other through acts like oath taking or treating. Over time, knighthood became associated with courtly behavior, morality, ethics, and church sanction.

Origins

The origins of knighthood can be traced back to the Germanic warrior classes of the Early Middle Ages. The term "knight" comes from the Old English word cyning, which meant prince, ruler, or warrior. In German, the term was knecht, which meant servant.

Knighthood and Chivalry

Knights were expected to maintain a code of conduct known as chivalry. Chivalry encompassed a number of virtues, including loyalty, strength, courtesy, and courtesy to women. Knights were expected to uphold these principles, often through acts of valor and service to their lords or communities.

Armor and Weapons

Knights were well-equipped for battle, wearing suits of armor to protect themselves and carrying weapons such as swords, lances, and shields. Their armor was typically made of iron or steel, often decorated with patterns or engravings.

Tournaments

Tournaments were a significant part of knightly culture. These events, which were essentially staged battles, allowed knights to test their skills against each other and to display their prowess. They were often held in celebration of important events, such as a knight's first tournament or the betrothal of a princess.

The Decline of Knighthood

The decline of knighthood occurred gradually over time. By the 16th century, the traditional role of the knight as a mounted warrior was no longer as relevant, and the role of the knight began to shift to more administrative and diplomatic duties. The concept of chivalry persisted, but it became more associated with courtly behavior and less with martial prowess.

In summary, knights were a class of skilled warriors in the Middle Ages who were expected to uphold a code of conduct known as chivalry. Their role in battle and their adherence to chivalry made them a significant part of medieval society, even as their specific duties and responsibilities evolved over time.