| Medieval Knighthood Ceremony |
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Ceremony of Knighthood in the European Middle Ages From an illuminated manuscript at Oxford University of England. After the accolade, the newly made knight was armed with sword, spurs, shield, and lance. The picture shows also a coat of mail was drawn over the knight's head. Click here for a free printable coloring page featuring this image, along with handwriting practice in print or cursive. Click here to enlarge this image. The medieval knighthood ceremony, also known as the dubbing ceremony, was a solemn and symbolic ritual that marked a squire's transition into knighthood. This rite of passage typically took place before a battle, at a major feast, or during a religious festival. It reflected both the military and spiritual responsibilities of knighthood in the feudal society of the Middle Ages. The process began with the squire undergoing a period of preparation, which included fasting, confession, and a night-long vigil of prayer, often in a chapel. This vigil emphasized the spiritual nature of the ceremony and reminded the candidate of his duty to God, his lord, and the ideals of chivalry. On the day of the ceremony, the squire would don symbolic garments such as a white tunic (purity), a red robe (valor), and a black belt (death and humility). The actual dubbing involved a noble or monarch tapping the squire on the shoulders with a sword—known as the accolade—while reciting a formal blessing or charge. The new knight would then swear oaths to uphold justice, protect the weak, and remain loyal to his lord. Often followed by feasting and celebration, the ceremony reinforced the knight's elevated status and the solemn responsibilities that came with it in medieval society. |
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