Medieval Warfare and Knights Quiz

10 Questions

What was the main role of knights in medieval warfare?

To gain land and power within their own countries

At what age did training for knighthood typically begin?

7 years

What was the primary responsibility of a page during his training to become a knight?

To study under the supervision of noblewomen

How did the requirements for becoming a knight change by the thirteenth century?

Only men of noble birth could become knights

What was a squire primarily responsible for during his training to become a knight?

Continuing his training in military skills

What individual exercise did knights participate in to develop their lance skills?

Tilting the quintain

In what type of event did tournaments often include mock battles between two opposing teams?

Mêlées

How did audiences at tournaments identify knights?

By the symbols on their shields and surcoats

What rules governed the design of coats of arms for knights?

Had to use up to five colors and two metals

What was expected of a chivalrous knight regarding women?

To fight to protect women

Study Notes

Medieval Warfare and Knights

Medieval warfare broke out due to various reasons, including fighting for land, power, kings, and replacing monarchs.
The most significant person on the battlefield was the knight, a warrior on horseback who fought for their king, lord, or for pay.

Becoming a Knight

Early knights could be 'lowly born' men rewarded for bravery and skill in battle.
By the 13th century, only men of noble birth could become knights, requiring years of training in military skills, service, and Christian teachings.
Training began at age 7 as a page, studying under noblewomen to learn politeness, serving God, literacy, and riding.
At 14, the page could become a squire, learning to care for armor, weapons, and horses, and continuing military and social training.
Between 18-21, the young man was eligible for knighthood.

Tournament and Jousting

Knights practiced fighting skills individually through exercises like 'tilting the quintain', and in organized tournaments.
Tournaments featured violent events called mêlées, where two teams engaged in mock battles.
Jousting was a popular part of tournaments, where two knights engaged in individual combat.
Tournaments attracted large audiences, who enjoyed seeing who would be the hero of the day.

Heraldry and Coats of Arms

Knights were identified by their coats of arms, symbols on shields, surcoats, and horse garments.
Coats of arms followed heraldry rules, using up to five colors and two metals, with metals separating colors and colors separating metals.

Chivalry

Knights were expected to live by the rules of chivalry, following proper behavior guidelines.
A chivalrous knight was loyal to the Catholic Church, dedicated to helping the weak, brave in battle, and willing to fight to protect women.