1. Knights & Knighthood
* Introduction to Arthurian Legend 1

2. What is a knight?
A Knight is referred to as a nobleman or warrior.
Knights were usually of noble birth such as kings, princes, dukes, earls & barons. 2

3. What Were a Knight’s Duties?
A Knight fought and served his lord according to The Code of Chivalry. 3

4. The Code of Chivalry Courage Nobility Faith (Christianity) Justice
Loyalty
Humility
Defense
Chastity
Prowess (skill)
Generosity

5. Commandments of Chivalry
Never lie; always be faithful to thy word
Be generous, and give to the poor
Fight against injustice
Follow the church and be a defender of its principles
Be a defender of the weak
Defend thy country and King
Love thy country
Be brave and do thy duty as a knight

6. How did one become a Knight?6

7. Becoming a Knight
Waited on noble’s hand and foot and lived inside his castle learning everything he could about Knighthood. 7

8. Becoming a Squire Helped battle at Knight’s side & shadowed the knight
Also known as Esquire
Helped battle at Knight’s side
& shadowed the knight
Experienced the social life of a Knight 8

9. Who was King Arthur?
Historical-- a legendary British leader who led the defense against Saxon invaders (6th century)
Literary—The Legendary King of Camelot
( AD)

10. What is a Legend? A story about a heroic figure on a quest
May have been based on a real person; fictional elements are added over time
Celebrates values, traits, morals shared by a people

11. What is Camelot? The capitol of Arthur’s kingdom
The Knights of the Round Table met there
Knights were chosen by Arthur to help him rule England according to the code of chivalry

12. What is Excalibur? The legendary sword of King Arthur
Has magical powers
Given to him by the Lady of the Lake

13. What is the Holy Grail? Cup used by Christ at the Last Supper
Said to have the power to heal and give eternal life
Connected to the legend because Arthur and his men go on a quest to find it

14. What destroyed Camelot?
Betrayal of Arthur by his most trusted knight, Lancelot
Lancelot has an affair with Arthur’s wife, Guinevere

15. As You Read. . .
Pay attention to the author’s tone (word choice) to understand his perspective
Identify elements that identify this story as a legend
Identify archetypes and their roles in the story
Identify the steps of the Hero’s Journey