The medieval period, spanning from the 5th to the 15th century, was marked by the rise of knights as warriors and protectors of the land. Knights were trained from a young age in the art of combat, and their weapons and armor evolved throughout the centuries.
“The knight was the epitome of the medieval warrior, embodying the ideals of chivalry, courage, and martial prowess.”
Richard W. Kaeuper, Professor of History at the University of Rochester and author of numerous books on medieval chivalry and warfare.
In this article, we will explore the different types of knights and their roles in society, as well as the development of their armor and weapons over time.
From the chain mail of the early medieval period to the full plate armor of the late medieval period, we will delve into the evolution of knightly equipment and its significance in the history of medieval Europe.
5th to 7th century: Migration Period; Germanic and Celtic warriors use chain mail, helmets, and shields.
8th to 11th century: Carolingian Empire; knights wear chain mail with reinforced leather, conical helmets, and carry a sword and a shield.
11th century: Norman Conquest of England; knights wear mail hauberks, kite-shaped shields, and carry swords and spears.
“The rise of the knightly class in the Middle Ages was one of the most significant developments in the history of Western Europe.” –
John France, Emeritus Professor of History at Swansea University and author of several books on medieval warfare and society.
12th century: Crusades; knights wear mail hauberks, surcoats with coats of arms, great helms, and carry swords, lances, and maces.
13th century: Knights Templar and Teutonic Knights; knights wear plate armor, great helms, and carry swords, lances, and battle axes.
14th century: Hundred Years’ War; knights wear full plate armor, including plate chausses, gauntlets, and breastplates, and carry swords, lances, and war hammers.
“Knights were a product of their society, and their values and behaviors reflected the social and cultural norms of medieval Europe.”
Kelly DeVries, Professor of History at Loyola University Maryland and author of several books on medieval warfare and chivalry.
15th century: Wars of the Roses; knights continue to wear full plate armor, but with more emphasis on decoration and heraldry. The longsword becomes the primary weapon, with the use of firearms starting to become more prevalent.
“The medieval knight was more than just a warrior; he was a symbol of social and political power, a representative of his lord, and a guardian of the Christian faith.”
Matthew Strickland, Professor of Medieval History at the University of Glasgow and author of numerous books on medieval warfare and society.
Note: It’s worth noting that the exact dates and developments of knightly armor and weaponry varied across different regions of medieval Europe. This timeline is intended to provide a general overview.
“The medieval knight was a complex figure, embodying both the ideals of chivalry and the harsh realities of feudal society.”
Susan B. Edgington, Emeritus Professor of Medieval History at Queen Mary University of London and author of several books on medieval chivalry and culture.