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The 10 Most Famous Medieval Knights in History: Legends & Heroes

A medieval knight was not only a fearsome warrior but also a symbol of honor, courage, and chivalry. From legendary figures like King Arthur and Richard the Lionheart to lesser-known heroes, these knights left a lasting mark on medieval history. Their stories of bravery, skill in battle, and loyalty to their lords continue to inspire fascination today. Exploring the lives of the 10 most famous medieval knights offers insight into their training, code of conduct, and heroic feats that shaped the medieval era.

1. King Arthur

The legendary king of Camelot, Arthur is believed to be an authentic historic figure of the medieval ages. He is also regarded as the classic example of a knight in shining armor. In fact, the knightly ideals of chivalry and bravery are believed to have been descended directly from him. Arthur’s actual life is surrounded by legends and myths. Some historians say that in the 5th and 6th centuries, Arthur fought the Saxon invaders and was thought to be a unifying force. He was an emblem of chivalry, order, and justice.

king arthur making a toast cinematic illustrat

 


2. Richard the Lionheart

Also known as Richard I of England, Richard the Lion-heart was one of the famous knights of the medieval period. He had spent most of the time of his reign abroad. As his name depicts, he was a brave knight and was also a reputed military commander. He famously fought against Saladin in the Crusades.

Richard the Lionheart Top 10 Medieval Knights
Richard the Lionheart

When returning from the Crusades, Richard was taken hostage by the Roman emperor but was later released. His valiant nature did not allow him to stay in England for long. He participated in the English wars against France. While attacking the Challis-Chabrol castle in France, Richard died of a poisoned arrow wound in 1199.

Saladin Leader of the Muslim armies
Muslim Leader Saladin

3. Joan of Arc

Also known as the ‘maid of Orleans’, Joan of arc was one of the few eminent female knights of medieval Europe. Born in 1412, she played a key role in the final phase of the Siege of Orleans in 1429. Her bravery boosted the morale of the French army and led it to victory.

Joan of Arc Ingres Coronation Charles Vii
Joan of Arc

Due to her bravery, she was hailed as a national heroine of France. However, she received little support or recognition from the French monarch. A dissident French faction later captured Joan of Arc and handed her over to the English. She was sentenced by the English and burned at the stake in 1431. Later, Joan of Arc was elevated to the status of a saint and martyr.

 

Medieval France Joan of Arc
Joan of Arc *Legendary figure in France

4. Alexander Nevsky

Born in 1220, Alexander Nevsky was the most honorable knight in Russian medieval history. He was the Prince of Novgorod and the Grand Prince of Vladimir. In 1240, he successfully defeated the Swedes on the Neva River and repelled the threat of an intrusion from the north.

Alexander Nevsky Top 10 Medieval Knights
Alexander Nevsky

Another event that enhanced his heroic image was defeating the Teutonic Knights in the ‘Battle of Ice’. Alexander was not only a great military leader and knight but also a significant political leader. He successfully negotiated with the Mongols who invaded Russia from the east. He died in 1263 and retains legendary status in Russian history.

Teutonic Knights


5. William Wallace

William Wallace was an important figure in the Scottish Independence Wars. At the age of 27, Wallace started his efforts for freedom and performed a major role in leading the Scottish against Edward I. He famously won the Battle of Stirling Bridge against an English army.

William Wallace Top 10 Medieval Knights
William Wallace *Top 10 Medieval Knights

In the wake of his victory, he was named the Guardian of Scotland. However, he was later defeated in the Battle of Falkirk. Subsequently, he was captured and brutally executed for treason in 1305. Wallace remains an icon of Scottish history and nationalism.

Battle of Bannockburn
Battle for Stirling Bridge

6. Edward of Woodstock – The Black Prince

Born in 1330, Edward was also known as the ‘Black Prince‘. He never became a king as he died before his father, yet he had a major impact on the 100-year war against France. This renowned and brave knight had achieved various victories at a very young age. He died at a young age in 1376, but his valiant image and heroism are still remembered and he is still very famous.

Edward The Black Prince
Edward of Woodstock *The Black Prince

7. Sir William Marshall

William Marshall, regarded as the greatest medieval knight, was born in 1146. Although he worked under five English kings, he remained loyal and was trusted so much that king Henry II appointed him as a guardian of his eldest son. During the revolt of Henry’s son, William remained loyal to the father and helped him in putting down the rebellion. He died in 1219 and is still famous due to his loyal and heroic career as a knight.

William_Marshal
William Marshal Top 10 Medieval Knights

8. John Hawkwood

John Hawkwood was one of the well-known English knights of the 14th century. He fought under Edward III and was a longbowman. John performed a major role in the renowned battles of Poitiers and Crecy. After joining the Great White Company, John Hawkwood crossed into Italy and fought for several armies such as Milan, Florence, and Pope. His career as a knight ended in Florence and he died in 1394.

John Hawkwood
John Hawkwood *Top 10 Medieval Knights

9. Bertrand du Guesclin

Born in 1320, Bertrand is considered to be one of the most famed medieval knights of French history. His bravery and strategic planning enabled him to get an important position at the French court. In 1364, the successful defense of Rennes was one of his famous achievements. Bertrand died in 1380 while on a campaign in Languedoc.

Bertrand du Guesclin Statue in Dinan France *Top 10 Medieval Knights
Bertrand du Guesclin

10. El Cid

The Spanish knight El Cid was born in 1043 and fought against the Arab moors for most of his life. His real name was Rodrigo Diaz de Vivar and El Cid was the name given to him by Arab moors due to his bravery and military might. In 1094, he conquered the city of Valencia and created a friendly environment for both Muslims and Christians. El Cid died in 1099 and is still known and regarded as being an outstanding knight of his time.

El Cid El Cid *Top 10 Medieval Knights
El Cid *Top 10 Medieval Knights

Frequently Asked Questions about Famous Medieval Knights

Who are considered the most famous medieval knights?

Famous knights include King Arthur, Richard the Lionheart, William Marshal, Bertrand du Guesclin, among others who made a lasting impact on history and legend.

What made these knights so legendary?

They became legendary through a combination of military skill, courage in battle, loyalty, and adherence to the code of chivalry.

Did all famous knights come from nobility?

Most were of noble birth, but some, like William Marshal, rose to fame through merit, bravery, and service rather than lineage alone.

What was the code of chivalry?

The code of chivalry emphasized honor, loyalty, courage, protection of the weak, and moral integrity, guiding knights both on and off the battlefield.

How were these knights trained?

Knights trained from childhood, starting as pages and squires, learning combat, horsemanship, strategy, and courtly etiquette before earning knighthood.

Did these knights participate in famous battles?

Yes, many were renowned for their roles in the Crusades, regional wars, and tournaments that defined their reputations.

What is the legacy of famous medieval knights?

Their legacy lives on in literature, films, historical studies, and in the ideals of honor, courage, and chivalry that continue to inspire today.


Test Your Knowledge: Famous Medieval Knights Quiz

1. Which knight is often associated with the legend of Camelot?



2. What qualities defined a knight under the code of chivalry?



3. Who was William Marshal?



4. Did all famous knights come from noble families?



5. In what types of events did famous knights participate?



6. Which knight is known for his role in the Third Crusade?



7. What is a lasting legacy of famous medieval knights?