The Life of a Knight in Medieval Europe

The Life of a Knight in Medieval EuropeThe life of a knight in medieval Europe may be described as a sad and depressing one. In the middle ages knights were warriors and warlords who were willing to do anything just to secure their own position in life, including killing innocent civilians who had no opportunity to defend themselves.When knights were present in the court of their nobles, they became the butt of jokes and gossip about their excessive eating habits, excessive alcohol drinking and heavy smoking. Their activities and habits caused many people to dislike them as well as have a hard time getting along with them. For instance, a wealthy merchant was accused of kidnapping and mistreating his slaves.Some of the knights were feared for their military prowess. This is because they were known for using spears and swords in battle. The lifestyles of knights were a lot different from those of common men. When a knight became a member of the Royal Court of a noble, he was required to wear a red mantle to distinguish him from commoners.If a knight died in battle or if he was banished from the royal court, his body would be buried in a mausoleum, commonly referred to as a 'manor graveyard.' His possessions and money would be placed in trust in the hands of an appointed administrator. These administrators would continue the knight's life work, supervising his activities and making sure that he would not engage in activities that would disturb the life of the public or cause other problems.Medieval knights were very hard workers. A typical day for a medieval knight would include hunting and plowing fields. Other than hunting and plowing, knights also had to keep their families fed and their servants clothed. There are reports that knights had to face harsher punishments than common criminals.Knights usually went on tours and quests with their Lord (the ruler of the manor) and guarded the kingdom against enemies, who at times outnumbered them by hundreds. Knights were also required to take part in jousts and other jousting tournaments as well as taking part in duels with each other.The life of a knight in medieval Europe was certainly not easy. It was said that knights took part in the death ceremonies of their lords and they were sometimes put in the gallows. However, for the most part, knights were treated respectfully and considered as men of virtue and honor.The life of a knight was a lonely one filled with battles, bravery. However, it was an honorable life filled with duty and honor. It was a life of pain and suffering, but for the most part, a life of honor.