Chivalry
Medieval chivalry is an iconic aspect of medieval society. Knights are often associated with bravery, chivalry, and adventure. In this comprehensive piece, we delve deeper into medieval chivalry, exploring the origins, role, and ideals of these noble warriors. Medieval chivalry emerged in the 9th and 10th centuries as a response to the need for organized military power and protection in a time of political instability. Knights were originally heavily armed warriors on horseback, ideally distinguished by their courage, skill in combat, and loyalty to a lord.
Code of Chivalry
Knights were expected to follow a strict code of chivalry, known as "chivalry." This code included virtues such as honor, courage, loyalty, justice, courtesy, and chivalrous love. Knights were encouraged to fight for justice, protect the weak, and honor women, following Christian principles. Chivalric ethics also emphasized loyalty to the church and the Christian faith.
Knighthood as a Social Class
Knighthood developed into a distinct social class within medieval society. Although not all knights were of noble birth, they were often considered the elite of society. Knighthood became hereditary and acquired through royal favors or merits on the battlefield. They enjoyed privileges such as land ownership, the right to levy taxes, and participation in noble affairs.
Knights in War
Knights were trained in the use of various weapons and combat techniques, such as sword fighting, charging with a lance, and archery. They formed the core of medieval armies and played a crucial role in battles. Knights were often equipped with armor, sword, shield, and helmet, and their deadly mounted attacks made them feared opponents.
Tournaments and Romance
In addition to their military role, knights were involved in tournaments, where they could showcase their skills and gain fame. Tournaments were spectacular events where knights in armor competed against each other with tournament weapons. These events, often accompanied by courtly declarations of love and poetry, inspired many medieval romances and legends.
Could Women Become Knights?
In theory, women could also become knights. However, this happened only a few times. Noble families had obligations to fulfill towards their liege lords, with military service being a prominent obligation. Families did everything to meet these obligations. In the absence of male heirs, some families were forced to have a woman fulfill these obligations. An example of a female knight was Petronilla de Grandmesnil from 12th-century England. In the 14th century, women were even allowed to participate in knightly orders. This indicates that, whether sporadically or regularly, women did become knights. Note that Joan of Arc from the 15th century is not an example of this practice.
Armor
The appearance of the knight changed over the centuries, but the tactics and types of weapons remained the same. In the 11th century, knights mainly wore long hauberks and gambesons, spangenhelms, and nasal helmets. The knight fought on horseback, charging with a spear or lance at the enemy. The impact of this charge was equivalent to 1 horsepower in the form of a sharp point hitting the enemy at a speed of about 20 mph. Important status symbols for the knight were the sword and spurs (used to spur their horse). Over the centuries, the spear evolved into a technologically advanced lance. From the 13th century onwards, plate armor parts increasingly protected knees, elbows, and later shoulders. This evolved into full plate armor by the end of the 14th century, rendering mail components nearly obsolete. The sword also evolved from an original design for slashing, like the Oakeshott Type X, to one-and-a-half-handers in the 15th century, specially developed for both slashing and thrusting. Thrusting became increasingly important to hit opponents between the gaps in their plate armor. Knights also carried shields, which became progressively shorter, contributing significantly to the knight's agility. Helmets evolved from nasal helmets (a helmet bowl and nose piece) to more extensive nose pieces (visors), to bascinets and sallets from the 14th century onwards.
The development of armor and weapons did not only occur on the battlefield. Tournaments were essential for armor innovation. In this sense, knightly tournaments can be seen as the Formula 1 racing of the automotive industry.
A Knight's Horse
Another characteristic symbol of the knight is his horse. The knight did not use his warhorse throughout the day. Instead, several different horse breeds were popular among knights. This was also a matter of cost. Warhorses were saved for actual warfare, much like tanks and tracked vehicles are transported to the battlefield on trailers. Warhorses were not burdened or ridden until necessary.
Destrier
The destrier was a heavy warhorse specially bred for combat. They were large, strong, and powerful, intended to carry the knight with his heavy armor. Destriers were suitable for charges and carrying heavy weapons.
Courser
Coursers were lighter horses known for their speed and agility. They were often used for fast reconnaissance, courier services, and in tournaments.
Palfrey
The palfrey was a horse known for its comfortable gait and was popular among knights for travel and long-distance rides. They had a calm temperament and were comfortable to ride.
Rouncey
Rounceys were medium-sized horses used as general riding horses by knights. They were versatile and could be used for various tasks, such as travel, hunting, and patrolling.
Knightly Orders
In the Middle Ages, knightly orders were prestigious and exclusive communities of knights and nobles united under a common goal, such as religious service, chivalric values, or military defense. These knightly orders originated in various parts of Europe and played a significant role in medieval society.
Order of the Templars
Founded in 1119, the Order of the Templars was a military knightly order originally established to protect pilgrims in the Holy Land during the Crusades. They became known for their financial and military power but were eventually disbanded in the 14th century.
Order of Saint John
Also known as the Hospitallers or the Order of Malta, this knightly order was established in the 11th century as a religious and military organization with the goal of providing medical care and protecting pilgrims. They were active in the Mediterranean region and continue to exist today as a humanitarian organization.
Order of the Golden Fleece
Founded in 1430 by Duke Philip the Good of Burgundy, this was a prestigious knightly order aimed at promoting chivalric values and the glory of the duchy. The order was limited to a select group of nobles and princes and was considered a sign of extraordinary honor.
Order of the Garter
Established in 1348 by King Edward III of England, the Order of the Garter is one of the oldest knightly orders still in existence. It was intended as a knightly order for the highest nobility, focusing on chivalry and service to the English crown.
Teutonic Order
This German knightly order was founded in 1190 as a military order with the goal of converting and defending the pagan Baltic region. They later became a significant political power and played a role in the Crusades and the governance of Prussia.
Order of Santiago
This Spanish knightly order was founded in the 12th century and was dedicated to protecting Christian territories on the Iberian Peninsula during the Reconquista.
Order of the Dragon
Established in 1408 by King Sigismund of Hungary, this knightly order aimed at defending Christianity and fighting against the Ottoman Empire.
Order of the Elephant
Founded in 1458 by King Christian I of Denmark, this is a Danish knightly order that still exists today. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious knightly orders in Europe.
Order of the Golden Fleece
This knightly order was founded in 1430 by Duke Philip the Good of Burgundy, with the aim of promoting chivalric values and the glory of the duchy.
Robber Knights
During the Hundred Years' War between England and France, robber knights emerged as nobles engaged in violent and illegal practices. They took advantage of political and military chaos to plunder, extort, and collect ransom. Robber knights operated in remote areas, attacking travelers and villages using surprise attacks and arson. They instilled fear and insecurity, disrupted trade and economic activities, and destabilized the region. The ruling powers attempted to suppress them, but the problem was only addressed later with the establishment of stronger administrations and security measures. Robber knights illustrate the complexity and powerlessness of that time and the impact of warfare on the population.
Misconduct by Knights
In the Middle Ages, some knights were guilty of various misconducts. They exploited peasants and lower classes by imposing unreasonable burdens and oppressing them. Additionally, some knights used their military skills to commit violence and cruelty, such as robbery, looting, and mistreatment of the vulnerable population. They also abused their position concerning women, demanding dowries and influencing marriage choices, sometimes resulting in forced marriages, unjust treatment, and sexual abuse. These misconducts were characteristic of certain knights, but it is important to note that not all knights engaged in such behavior.
Changes in Knighthood
During the late Middle Ages, knighthood began to evolve. In the 15th century, increasingly professional armies and political officials emerged, reducing the dominance of knights. Furthermore, social and political changes led the nobility to focus more on acquiring political power and economic interests.
Knights played a central role in many different wars. Here is an overview of wars in which knights were central.
The Norman Conquest of England (11th century)
Knights, led by William the Conqueror, played a crucial role in the conquest of England by the Normans. The Battle of Hastings in 1066 is a well-known example of knights' involvement.
The Crusades (11th-13th centuries)
Knights played a crucial role in the series of military campaigns known as the Crusades. They fought against Muslim armies in the Holy Land to protect Christianity and regain control of important holy sites.
The Reconquista (8th-15th centuries)
Knights were involved in the Christian reconquest of the Iberian Peninsula from Islamic Moorish rulers. They fought in legendary battles such as the Battle of Las Navas de Tolosa and the Battle of Granada.
The Reconquest of Portugal (11th-13th centuries)
Knights were involved in the reconquest of Portugal from Moorish rule. They fought bravely in battles such as the Battle of Ourique and the Battle of Aljubarrota.
The Reconquest of Sicily (11th-12th centuries)
Knights were involved in the conquest of Sicily from Islamic rulers by Norman and Southern Italian forces. Knights like Roger I of Sicily played a significant role in these campaigns.
The Crusades in the Baltic region (12th-13th centuries)
Knights were involved in armed conflicts in the Baltic region, fighting against pagan tribes and promoting the spread of Christianity.
The Mongol invasions (13th century)
Knights from various European countries, such as Hungary and Poland, played a role in defending against the Mongol invasions. They were known for their courage and skill on horseback in confrontations with Mongol riders.
The Scottish Wars of Independence (13th-14th centuries)
Knights, including William Wallace and Robert the Bruce, played a crucial role in the struggle for Scottish independence against English rule. The Battle of Bannockburn is a well-known example of a victory thanks to Scottish knights.
The Hundred Years' War (14th-15th centuries)
Knights were prominent in this prolonged war between England and France. They fought in major battles such as Crécy, Poitiers, and Agincourt, showcasing their martial and strategic skills.
The Italian Wars (15th-16th centuries): Knights were involved in the wars and conflicts between Italian city-states, as well as invasions by foreign powers such as France and Spain. They fought as mercenaries for various rulers and princes.
The Wars of the Roses (15th century)
This civil war in England was characterized by conflicts between rival noble houses. Knights played a crucial role on both sides, fighting in battles such as the Battle of Bosworth.
The Hussite Wars (15th century)
Knights were involved in the religious conflicts in Bohemia (modern-day Czech Republic) between the Catholic Church and the Hussite movement. The Hussites, led by Jan Hus and later Jan Žižka, were known for their tactics and effective use of war wagons.
The Byzantine-Ottoman Wars (14th-15th centuries)
Knights from Western Europe, such as the Hospitallers and the Order of St. John, fought alongside the Byzantine Empire against the rising Ottoman Turks. The Battles of Nicopolis and Varna are examples of conflicts where knights played a role.