A knight without honor is no longer alive. Knighthood A knight without honor is no longer alive.
Who were the knights? Early middle ages – just warriors who fought on horseback, no social distinction By 1100s – knights became a sign of nobility and social status Became expensive to get equipped for fighting on horseback Became a prestigious class
Road to Knighthood Page - age 7 Squire- age 13 Knight – age 18-21 a boy would be sent off to the castle of another lord Run errands for castle, learned manners, reading writing, numbers, singing, dancing, playing instruments, how to use a sword, how to ride a horse Squire- age 13 Learned duties and responsibilities of a knight took part in mock battles, followed master into battle Assist knights, become lord’s devoted attendant, take care of armor & weapons & become skilled in their use, help in tournaments. Knight – age 18-21 Officially became a knight in a ceremony, sometimes on battlefield
Heraldry Also called a Coat of Arms Used as identification on a knights shield during battle
Age of Chivalry
Code of Chivalry Code of Chivalry- complex set of ideals, demanded that a knight fight bravely in defense of three masters Earthly Feudal Lord (Defend the Castle) Heavenly lord (Defend Christianity) Chosen lady (Defend your Woman) Protected the weak and poor Ideal knight was loyal, brave and courteous
Literature of Chivalry Themes downplayed the brutality of knighthood and feudal warfare Idealized castle life Glorified knighthood and chivalry
Types of Literature Epic poetry- poems that recounted a hero’s deeds and adventures Enjoyed by feudal lords and their ladies Many retold stories about legendary heroes such as King Arthur and Charlemagne Love Poems and Songs-recounted a hero’s difficulties that resulted from a conflict between his lady and duty to his lord. Troubadours- traveling poet musicians at the castles and courts Composed short verses and songs about the joys and sorrows of romantic love Some told of lovesick knights who adored ladies who they would never win