Knighthood
Similar to many other European countries during the Middle Ages, a process was developed for becoming a mounted warrior, or Knight. Typically, the process took about fourteen years. After becoming a Knight, a Knight was expected to follow the code of Chivalry. The life of a Knight during the Middle Ages in Ireland was a difficult job that required much discipline and training for battles with opposing lords.
Similar to many other European countries during the Middle Ages, a process was developed for becoming a mounted warrior, or Knight. Typically, the process took about fourteen years. After becoming a Knight, a Knight was expected to follow the code of Chivalry. The life of a Knight during the Middle Ages in Ireland was a difficult job that required much discipline and training for battles with opposing lords.
Process of Becoming a Knight
Nobles began the process of becoming a Knight in early childhood at the age of seven. The young noble, (now considered a Page), worked as a Knight's attendant and began basic training. At age fourteen, they were deemed a Squire. During this time, they maintained the Knight's armor and weapons. Finally, at age 21, after the completion of their training, the Squire was deemed a Knight. |
Chivalry
Chivalry was a code of conduct associated with knighthood. The Chivalric Code developed during the time period from 1170-1220. By the late Middle Ages, Chivalry was a moral system that combined the attributes of a warrior, a Christian, and a gentleman with courtly manners. This produced a sense of honor and nobility among the Knights. |
The Knight of Kerry (Green Knight)
The Knight of Kerry, or the Green Knight was one of the three Anglo-Irish hereditary knighthoods that existed during the Middle Ages in Ireland. The Knight of Kerry developed from the Fitzgerald Dynasty. The first Knight of Kerry was Sir Maurice Buidhe Fitz John. |
The Knight of Glin (Black Knight)
Similar to the Knight of Kerry, the Knight of Glin developed from the Fitzgerald Dynasty of Limerick County, Ireland in the early fourteenth century. The first Knight of Glin was Sir John Fitz John. Unfortunately, Sir John Fitz John, had a very tragic death. |
Life of a Knight in the Middle Ages
Knights were mounted warriors who fought on horseback. Knights fought using swords, axes, and lances. For protection, Knights wore armor and carried shields. In the Feudal System, Knights protected the estates of land given to the vassal lords by a lord. Knight typically lived within castles. |
Additional information about Knighthood and Knights in Ireland can be found at:
1. http://www.themiddleages.net/life/knights.html
2. http://www.medieval-life-and-times.info/medieval-knights/
1. http://www.themiddleages.net/life/knights.html
2. http://www.medieval-life-and-times.info/medieval-knights/