Highly skilled and heavily armored, knights were the elite soldiers of the Middle Ages (circa 500–1500 CE). Although many children of the medieval era dreamed of becoming knights, it was not an opportunity available to everyone. Most knights in training were boys and young men, and they usually came from families with enough money to afford the necessary armor, weapons, and warhorses. A future knight also needed to be strong, courageous, and willing to endure many years of preparation.

Answer 1

Knighthood was a prestigious and noble position, and becoming a knight required a long and rigorous process. The training of a knight usually began at a young age, typically around seven years old. Boys who were chosen to become knights would be sent to live in the castle of a lord or a knight to serve as a page.

As a page, a young boy would be responsible for performing various tasks and duties, such as caring for the knight's armor, serving at the table, and attending to the knight's needs. They would also receive basic education, learning how to read and write, as well as studying the code of chivalry, which emphasized virtues like honor, loyalty, and bravery.

After several years as a page, a young man would then become a squire. As a squire, he would assist the knight in battle and continue his training. This included learning how to handle weapons, ride a warhorse, and engage in mock combat. Squires also learned about the various strategies and tactics employed in warfare.

During this time, squires would accompany their knights to tournaments and battles, observing and gaining practical experience. They also had to prove themselves in combat, displaying their skills and courage on the battlefield. Only after a squire had proven his worth and demonstrated the necessary qualities would he have the chance to be knighted.

The ceremony of knighthood was a solemn and formal event, usually conducted by a lord or a higher-ranking knight. It involved the squire taking vows to uphold the code of chivalry, to defend the weak and oppressed, and to serve their lord faithfully. The squire would then be dubbed a knight, receiving the accolade of a tap on the shoulder or a blow with a sword.

Once knighted, a knight would be expected to actively participate in military campaigns, defending his lord's lands and fighting in wars. Knights were skilled warriors, proficient in various weapons such as swords, lances, and battle axes. They were trained in mounted combat and were known for their expertise in jousting, a popular sport and form of military training.

Knights were also expected to adhere to the code of chivalry and behave honorably. This included treating others with respect, protecting the weak, and being just in their actions. A knight was expected to be loyal to their lord and church, and serve as a protector of the realm.

While knighthood was a coveted and esteemed position, not all knights were of noble birth. In some cases, commoners who displayed exceptional skill and valor on the battlefield could be knighted by a lord as a reward for their services. However, this was relatively rare, and for the majority, knighthood remained a privilege restricted to those born into the noble class.

Overall, the path to becoming a knight was arduous and demanding, and only a select few possessed the necessary means and qualities to achieve this esteemed rank. Knights played a significant role in the medieval period, symbolizing bravery, honor, and prowess on the battlefield.