1. A knight without honor is no longer alive.
Knighthood
A knight without honor is no longer alive.

2. 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

3. 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

4. Heraldry Also called a Coat of Arms
Used as identification on a knights shield during battle

5. Age of Chivalry

6. 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

8. Literature of Chivalry
Themes downplayed the brutality of knighthood and feudal warfare
Idealized castle life
Glorified knighthood and chivalry

9. 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