A knight was an armed horseman who typically came from a noble background. They served a lord and fought for him in battle. They wore heavy armour and carried weapons such as lances and swords. They had to pay for their own horse, armour, and weapons. Some were wealthy, while others had few possessions.

Training for many knights began in childhood. As pages, they learnt to ride, fight with weapons and behave properly at a nobleman’s court.

Later, they were promoted to squires. They accompanied experienced knights, looking after their horses, equipment and weapons. Only after completing this training could they be knighted.