Notes on Medieval Knights

Definition of a Knight

• A knight is a professional fighter on horseback, typically of noble birth.
• Must own weapons and a horse; required to train for combat.

Formation of a Knight

• Knights are recruited from young nobles and undergo a long apprenticeship.
• Stages of Training:
  • At Age 7:
    • Begins as a rascal, caring for horses and cleaning stables.
  • Page:
    • Initiated into combat using wooden weapons.
    • Serves his master and may learn to read and write.
  • At Age 14:
    • Becomes a squire, assisting his knight and practicing combat with spear and sword.
    • Accompanies master in tournaments and battlefields.
  • At Age 21:
    • If proven brave and financially able, can be knighted in a dubbing ceremony.

The Dubbing Ceremony

• Official ritual marking the transition from squire to knight.
• Steps in the Ceremony:
  • Purification: Bathed, dressed in white, fasting, and praying overnight.
  • Takes an oath on the gospels.
  • Receives a sword and golden spurs.
  • Kneels before godfather who taps shoulders with the sword (colée).

Knight's Oath

• Core Principles:
  • Defend the weak, orphans, and widows.
  • Live in purity.
  • Render justice.
  • Protect the church.
  • Serve lord and king.

Spirit of Chivalry

• Established by the church in the 11th century to curb violence.
• Introduced rules like the Truce of God, prohibiting war during specific periods.
• Knights must protect the weak and maintain order.
• Forbidden to attack certain groups and destroy properties or harm animals.

Knight's Qualities

• Loyalty
• Honor
• Courage
• Generosity

Knight's Armament

• Armament is costly and requires sufficient funds.
• Key Components:
  • Steed: Specially chosen war horse capable of carrying heavy armor.
  • Weapons:
    • Spear and long sword.
    • Combat techniques evolved throughout the Middle Ages.
  • Armor:
    • Typical armor dates from the 15th century, including:
      • Hauberk: metal mesh tunic.
      • Helmet and shield.

Types of Armor and Weapons

• Hauberk: Protects body and head.
• Spear: Approximately 3 meters long, used for charging enemies.
• Gambeson: Thick linen garment that absorbs blows.
• Spurs: Added for control and effectiveness.

15th Century Armor Appearance

• Rich knights wore plate armor, weighing around 25 kg.
• Additional Armor Types:
  • Helm: Protective headgear.
  • Shield: Identifies knight through coat of arms; protects against blows.
  • Gauntlet: Hand protection.
  • Sword: Main weapon, weighs about 2 pounds.

Other Weapons of the Knight

• Battle Axe: Powerful for close combat.
• Mace: Handle with a spiked head, effective for stunning opponents.
• Flail: Wooden handle with a metal chain and iron mass, destructive against armor.

Knight's Social Role

• Knights do not work or pay taxes, focusing on protection and training.
• Participate in tournaments and hunts during peacetime for amusement and skill improvement.