“The knight’s essential responsibilities were to serve his lord in battle, protect the weak and defenseless, uphold the code of chivalry, and maintain order in society. This included participating in military campaigns, engaging in jousts and tournaments, and acting as a symbol of nobility and honor.”
(Source: Maurice Keen, “Chivalry,” 1984)
1. Military Service: The primary role of a knight was to serve as a professional warrior. Knights were skilled in combat and were expected to fight on behalf of their lord or king. They would participate in battles, sieges, and tournaments, demonstrating their prowess and protecting their liege lord’s interests. Knights were often heavily armored cavalry, providing a powerful force on the battlefield.
2. Chivalry and Code of Conduct: Knights were bound by a code of conduct known as chivalry. This code emphasized virtues such as honor, loyalty, bravery, and courtesy. Knights were expected to adhere to these principles in their actions and interactions, treating others with respect and showing compassion towards the weak and defenseless.
3. Protection of the Realm: Knights played a crucial role in maintaining law and order within their lord’s domains. They acted as enforcers of justice and were responsible for protecting the local population from bandits, raiders, and other threats. Knights often held positions of authority within their communities and were expected to maintain peace and security.
4. Service to the Lord: Knights served their feudal lord, pledging their loyalty and offering military and administrative support. They would often provide counsel to their lord, participate in feudal councils, and carry out tasks assigned to them. This included managing and defending the lord’s lands, overseeing the administration of justice, and collecting taxes or tributes.
5. Training and Education: Knights underwent rigorous training from a young age to develop their martial skills. They learned to ride horses, wield weapons such as swords and lances, and engage in combat techniques. Knights also received education in the form of literature, music, and courtly manners, fostering a well-rounded and cultured persona.
6. Symbol of Nobility: Knights embodied the ideals of nobility and acted as social elites within medieval society. Their status was often associated with land ownership and their position in the feudal hierarchy. Knights were expected to maintain a certain level of decorum, participating in courtly rituals, attending feasts, and displaying their heraldic devices.
“Knights were not only warriors; they were also expected to act as administrators and judges, ensuring justice and order in their lord’s lands. They were responsible for the defense of the realm, the protection of the lord and his family, and the maintenance of social order through their actions and example.”
(Source: Richard W. Kaeuper, “Chivalry and Violence in Medieval Europe,” 1999)
It’s important to note that the responsibilities and expectations of knights could vary across regions and time periods. Additionally, individual knights might have had specific duties and obligations based on their personal circumstances or the agreements they made with their lords.