Рет қаралды 177,449
In the Middle Ages, knights were at the top of the social ladder. With the best training, the best clothes, the best weapons and, supposedly, the best manners, they were what everyone else aspired to be. There were legendary knights such as King Arthur and St. George, patron of all knights, winners of famous tournaments such as Sir William Marshal, and even some non-Christians were allowed the honorary title of knight as the great Muslim leader Saladin.
The knights were the most feared and best protected warriors on the medieval battlefield, while, outside it, they were among the best dressed and fashionable members of society. However, reaching this high status became increasingly challenging as the Middle Ages progressed. The requirements included an aristocratic birth, training since childhood, money for weapons, horses and squires, and a knowledge of the rules of cavalry. Good looks, fine clothes, a striking coat of arms and the ability to recite poetry and songs were optional, but very desirable extras if you wanted to reach the top of this elite level of medieval society.