“The romantic notion of chivalry often overshadows the brutal realities of medieval combat, which involved blood, sweat, and tears.”
Kelly DeVries, historian and author of “Medieval Military Technology.”
Knights were, first and foremost, soldiers, and the violence and trauma of combat left a lasting impact on those who fought in it.
One of the most physically grueling aspects of medieval warfare was the weight of the armor that knights had to wear. A full suit of armor could weigh up to 60 pounds, making movement and breathing difficult.
In hot weather, the metal could heat up to unbearable temperatures, causing exhaustion and dehydration. The armor was also expensive and difficult to maintain, meaning that only the wealthiest knights could afford to wear it.
The psychological toll of combat was no less devastating. Fighting and killing other human beings is an experience that can leave lasting scars on the psyche, and medieval knights were no exception. Many knights struggled with feelings of guilt, shame, and PTSD as a result of their experiences in battle.
“Knights were not just noble warriors, but also skilled killers who engaged in some of the most savage and violent battles in history.”
Richard Kaeuper, historian and author of “Chivalry and Violence in Medieval Europe.”
The chivalric code, which emphasized honor, nobility, and loyalty, often conflicted with the realities of warfare. For example, knights were expected to fight with honor and fairness, but in practice, many resorted to underhanded tactics such as ambushes, traps, and surprise attacks.
The temptation to win at all costs was strong, and the lines between honorable and dishonorable behavior were often blurred.
Another area where chivalric ideals clashed with reality was in the treatment of non-combatants. Knights were supposed to protect innocent civilians and refrain from harming women and children, but in practice, civilian casualties were common.
The sacking of cities and towns was a frequent occurrence in medieval warfare, and the plunder and pillaging of valuable goods and treasures was often seen as a legitimate spoils of war.
The glorification of violence was another dark aspect of chivalric culture. Medieval knights were expected to be skilled in combat and to revel in the thrill of battle. The more enemies a knight defeated, the greater his reputation and status became. This led to a culture of hypermasculinity and aggression, where knights were judged on their physical strength and prowess in battle rather than their character or intelligence.
“The code of chivalry may have emphasized honor, courage, and loyalty, but it did little to mitigate the horrors of medieval warfare.”
John France, historian and author of “Perilous Glory: The Rise of Western Military Power.”
The objectification of women was also prevalent in chivalric culture. Women were often portrayed as passive objects of desire, rather than active agents in their own right. Knights were expected to defend women’s honor and protect them from harm, but this was often a paternalistic and patronizing attitude. Women who did not fit the ideal of the chaste and virtuous lady were often treated with contempt and derision.
Even the concept of chivalry itself was not immune to abuse. Knights who broke the code of chivalry could be subject to punishment, but in practice, the system was often used to protect the interests of the powerful. Knights who were accused of dishonorable behavior could buy their way out of trouble, and the chivalric system could be used to justify violence and oppression.
“Medieval combat was a chaotic and brutal affair, with little regard for the safety or well-being of the combatants or bystanders.”
Stephen Turnbull, historian and author of “Warfare in the Medieval World.”
Despite these darker aspects of chivalry, it is important to remember that not all knights were violent or abusive. Many knights were genuinely committed to the ideals of chivalry and strove to live up to them in their daily lives. Knights who acted with honor and integrity were respected and admired by their peers, and the chivalric code did have a positive impact on medieval society in many ways.
One area where chivalry had a particularly positive impact was in the treatment of prisoners of war. Medieval warfare was often characterized by mass slaughter and brutality, but chivalry encouraged knights to treat their defeated enemies with dignity and respect.
“The brutality of medieval combat was often justified in the name of chivalry, but in reality, it was a far cry from the ideals of honor and dignity that we associate with the code of chivalry today.”
Andrew Latham, historian and author of “The Holy Lance.”