The knight

Definition

A knight is a mounted and armored soldier in the medieval period, often associated with the chivalric code that emphasized values such as bravery, honor, and loyalty. Knights played a vital role in the feudal system, serving as vassals to lords in exchange for land and protection. This concept of knighthood not only influenced military tactics but also became a cultural ideal that shaped social commentary and character representations in literature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Knights were often granted the title through a ceremonial process known as 'dubbing,' marking their transition from a squire to a full knight.
2. The image of the knight was heavily romanticized in medieval literature, often depicting them as heroic figures on quests to rescue damsels or uphold justice.
3. Knights participated in tournaments, which were competitive events showcasing their combat skills, often serving as both entertainment and training.
4. The chivalric code not only dictated knights' conduct in battle but also extended to their behavior in social contexts, influencing the ideals of gentlemanly behavior.
5. The decline of knighthood began with changes in warfare technology, such as the introduction of gunpowder and professional armies, reducing the need for heavily armored cavalry.

Review Questions

• How did the concept of chivalry influence the portrayal of knights in medieval literature?
  • Chivalry significantly shaped how knights were depicted in medieval literature by establishing a set of moral guidelines they were expected to follow. These ideals, such as bravery, loyalty, and respect for women, created an archetype of the noble knight who embarked on quests for honor and justice. As authors illustrated these characters adhering to chivalric principles, they also offered social commentary on the virtues and flaws inherent in human nature and society.
• In what ways did feudalism create the conditions for the emergence of knighthood as a social class?
  • Feudalism established a structured hierarchy that necessitated the roles of knights as protectors and warriors for their lords. As vassals, knights were granted land in return for military service, creating a social class that was distinct from peasantry. This relationship not only reinforced loyalty among classes but also allowed for the development of knighthood as an esteemed position within medieval society that came with specific rights and responsibilities.
• Evaluate the impact of courtly love on the depiction of knights and their relationships with women in medieval literature.
  • Courtly love had a profound impact on how knights were depicted in their relationships with women within medieval literature. It often portrayed knights as yearning for unattainable love, positioning them as noble yet tormented figures striving for emotional fulfillment. This idealized romance influenced not only character motivations but also societal expectations regarding love and honor, creating narratives where knights' valor was tested by their ability to uphold these romantic ideals while navigating complex social dynamics.

Related terms

Chivalry: A code of conduct associated with knights, focusing on ideals like honor, bravery, and respect for women and the weak.

Feudalism: A hierarchical system of land ownership and duties prevalent during the medieval period, where knights served lords in exchange for land.

Courtly Love: A medieval literary concept depicting the idealized romantic relationship between a knight and a noblewoman, often characterized by unattainable love.