Becoming a knight in the middle ages was a long and difficult process that required dedication, hard work, and a commitment to upholding the values of chivalry. It was a prestigious position that was highly sought after, and only a select few were able to attain it.
Knighthood – The Process of Becoming a Knight
In the middle ages, knights were members of the noble class who were trained in the art of warfare and were expected to serve their lord or king in times of conflict. They were also expected to protect the weak and defend the honor of their lord or kingdom. There were 3 stages of becoming a knight:
- Becoming a Page
To become a knight, an individual had to go through a process called “knighthood.” This process typically began when a young boy, usually between the ages of 7 and 14, was sent to live with a noble family as a page. As a page, the boy would be responsible for running errands, performing basic household tasks, and learning the ways of chivalry and nobility.
- Becoming a Squire
Once a boy had completed his duties as a page, he could then become a squire, which was the next step in the process of becoming a knight. A squire was responsible for assisting the knight in his daily duties, such as tending to his horse, preparing his armor, and accompanying him into battle. A squire would also receive training in the use of weapons and the art of warfare.
- Knighting Ceremony
After several years of service as a squire, a young man could then be knighted. The knighting ceremony typically took place during a special ceremony called a “dubbing,” in which the candidate for knighthood would kneel before his lord or king and be tapped on the shoulder with a sword. This symbolized the passing on of the duties and responsibilities of a knight.
In the medieval period, the knighting ceremony was a formal event that marked the transition of a young man into adulthood and the warrior class. It typically involved the knight-to-be taking a series of vows, including a vow of chivalry and a pledge to defend the weak and defend the honor of the kingdom.
The ceremony also usually included the conferral of a coat of arms and the presentation of a sword, which the knight was expected to use in service to the king or queen.
Knighting in modern times
In modern times, the knighting ceremony is often performed as a symbolic gesture rather than a formal induction into a specific order of knights.
It may be performed at a ceremonial event, such as a royal coronation or a military promotion, or it may be performed by a private individual as a way of recognizing and honoring someone’s achievements or contributions to a particular cause.
The Duties and Responsibilities of a Knight
Once a person had been knighted, they were expected to uphold the values of chivalry and to serve their lord or kingdom with honor and loyalty. This included defending the weak and poor, protecting the honor of their lord or kingdom, and living a life of integrity and virtue.
Knights were also expected to participate in medieval tournaments, which were sporting events that involved jousting and other forms of mock combat. These tournaments were a way for knights to hone their skills and display their bravery and prowess.
In addition to their duties as warriors and defenders, knights were also expected to be skilled in the arts of poetry, music, and dance. These skills were considered essential for a knight, as they were seen as a way to display their refinement and cultural sophistication.
Interesting Facts About Becoming a Knight In Medieval Times
- Knighthood was a prestigious and highly coveted status in medieval society. It was often associated with wealth, power, and social standing, and many young men aspired to become knights from a young age.
- Becoming a knight was a long and difficult process that involved a series of steps and ceremonies. These steps could take many years to complete, and many young men who began the process never finished.
- Knighthood was not limited to men. There were also women knights in medieval times, known as “lady knights” or “dames.” These women were often the daughters or wives of knights, and they were sometimes given the same training and responsibilities as their male counterparts.
The Prestige of Knighthood
Becoming a knight was a long and difficult process that required years of training and dedication. It was a prestigious position that was highly sought after, and only those who were able to meet the strict requirements and uphold the values of chivalry were able to attain it.
However, for those who were able to attain the rank of knight, it was a position of great honor and respect, and one that was deeply revered in medieval society.