Medieval Knights

Definition

• A knight is a fighter on horseback, often from the nobility.
• Must own weapons and horse; trained for combat.

Formation of the Knight

• Knights recruited from young nobles.
• Apprenticeship begins early, often starting at age 7.
  • Age 7: Begins as a rascal; takes care of horses and cleans stables.
  • Page: Initiated into combat with wooden weapons; serves master and may learn reading/writing.
  • Age 14: Becomes a squire, wears the shield of the knight he serves, helps with armor, practices with spear and sword, accompanies master in tournaments and battles.
  • Age 21: If brave and financially able, can become a knight in a dubbing ceremony.

Dubbing Ceremony

• Official ceremony to become a knight, codified by the church from the 12th century.
• Steps in the ceremony:
  • Purification ritual: Dress in white, fast, and pray overnight in a chapel.
  • Takes an oath on the gospels.
  • Receives a sword and golden spurs.
  • Colée: Godfather taps shoulders with the flat of the sword.
  • Becomes vassal to a lord.

Knight's Oath

• 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.
• Truce of God: Prohibits war before Christmas and Easter.
• Rules of conduct for knights:
  • Must protect weak and maintain order.
  • Forbidden to attack religious figures, laborers, merchants, and pilgrims.
  • Must not destroy churches, mills, or harm plowing animals.
• Knight's Qualities: Loyalty, honor, courage, generosity.

Knight's Armament

• Armament is expensive; requires financial means.
• Steed: War horse capable of carrying more than 100 kg of knight and armor.
• Protected by mesh shell or armor.
• Weapons include:
  • Spear: Long weapon used to charge enemies.
  • Long sword: Noble weapon, perfected combat techniques throughout the Middle Ages.
  • Hauberk: Metal mesh tunic.
  • Helmet and shield.

Evolution of Armor

• By the 15th century, armor made of metal plates appears.
• Typical armor components:
  • Gauntlet: Protects the hand.
  • Sword: Weighs about 2 pounds and is essential.

Other Weapons of the Knight

• Battle axe: Powerful shock weapon for close combat.
• Mace: Handle with a head, capable of knocking out opponents.
• Flail: Wooden handle with a metal chain and iron mass, destructive against hauberks.

Knight's Lifestyle

• Knights do not work or pay taxes while protecting others.
• In times of peace, engage in tournaments and hunts for training and amusement.