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Medieval Knights

In the Middle Ages, knights in armour defended castles and served kings. Castles had moats, thick walls and drawbridges.

๐Ÿ’ก Fun fact

A full suit of armour could weigh 20 kg or more.

All about Medieval Knights

In the Middle Ages, which lasted roughly from the 5th to the 15th century in Europe, knights were mounted warriors who served a lord or king. Knights trained from childhood and followed a code of honour that valued courage, loyalty and faith.

Knights wore armour, carried swords, lances and shields and lived in castles or manor houses. Castles had moats, thick walls and drawbridges to protect against attack. Tournaments and jousts gave knights a chance to show their skills.

They wore armour made from metal plates or chain mail and rode horses into battle. Young boys trained for years to become knights, learning to ride, fight with swords and lances, and behave with honour.

Knights followed a set of ideas called chivalry, which included loyalty, courage and protecting the weak. Knights defended castles and took part in tournaments, where they competed in jousting. Over time, the role of the knight changed as warfare changed.

๐ŸŽฎ Try it yourself!

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๐Ÿ‘€ What the animation shows

This animation shows a knight in armour riding a horse and charging with a lance. Watch how the knight's armour protects the body while the horse carries the rider forward.

Real-life uses of Medieval Knights

  • Understanding how castles were designed to defend against attackers
  • Learning about feudalism and loyalty between lords and vassals
  • Exploring the origins of chivalry in stories and legends

Frequently asked questions about Medieval Knights

How did someone become a knight?

Usually a boy trained as a page, then a squire, learning riding and fighting before being knighted in a ceremony.

How heavy was a knight's armour?

A full suit of plate armour weighed roughly 20 to 25 kilograms, and knights could still move and fight in it.

What is chivalry?

A code of conduct for knights that valued bravery, courtesy, honesty and protecting the weak.