The Age of Chivalry

1. The Age of Chivalry Standard 2.6 E.Q. What established knighthood in medieval period?

2. Chivalry • Soldiers mounted on horseback became valuable in combat during the reign of Charlemagne’s grandfather, Charles Martal, in the 700’s. • Leather saddles and stirrups changed the way warfare was conducted in Europe. • Stirrups enabled him to ride and handle heavier weapons. Important to an army.

3. Warrior’s Role in Feudal Society • 11th century, Western Europe was a battle ground of warring nobles for power. • Defend feudal lords raised privates armies of knights. Gave them land for loyalty. • Knight’s main obligation was to serve in battle. • Lord typically demanded about 40 days of combat a year. Knights past – time revolved around training for war.

4. Knighthood and the Code of Chivalry • Chivalry: Complex set of ideals, demanded that a knight fight bravely in defense of three masters. • Devoted himself to his earthly feudal lord his heavenly lord, and his chosen lady. • Protected the weak and the poor. • Ideal knight was loyal, brave, and courteous. • Treated lower classes brutally.

5. Knight’s Training • Sons of Nobles began training for knighthood at an early age and learned the code of chivalry. • 7: boy would be sent off to the castle of another lord as a page. • 14: page reached the rank of squire, acting as a servant. • At age 21, a quire became a full – fledged knight. • Most young men traveled for a year or two, gained experience fighting in local wars.

6. Epic Poetry • Feudal lords and their ladies enjoyed listening to epic poems. • Epics retold stories about legendary heroes such as King Arthur. • Troubadours: Traveling poet – musicians at the castles and courts of Europe. • Might sing about love’s disappointments, others involved lovesick knights who adored ladies.