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What is a knight?


What is a knight?
Wonders


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by Mya Kagan (whyzz writer) >> more about the author

The term “knight” has a different meaning in history than it does today. Several hundred years ago (during the Middle Ages), a knight was like a warrior or soldier. Have you ever seen a picture of a knight in armor? This was the soldier’s protection. As children and young adults, knights trained and learned what they would need to know. When they became old enough and had the right skills, knights would go to battle for whomever they served.

Today, we no longer have armored knights who ride on horses, but the term “knight” still exists. People can be “knighted,” usually by the king or queen of a royal family, as a type of honor for something great that they have accomplished. It’s like a symbol of bravery, loyalty, and good!




During the Middle Ages, a very young knight who had just begun his training was known as a Page. Pages learned basic skills like writing, reading, and how to hunt. Around age 12, the Page became a Squire. Squires learned about how to wear armor and use weapons. When the Squire was about 21 years old, he would then dedicate himself to serve duty and became a Knight.






Neat things about Knights!

During the Middle Ages, when knights were fighters who wore armor, other people in society had special titles and positions too! For example, there were kings & queens and lords & ladies. Some people were also peasants or serfs.

Have you ever learned about any of the history from this interesting time period? Maybe you know about Coats or Arms or Jousting Tournaments! Ask a grown-up to help you learn two new things right now!