The prevalence of warfare in feudal times made the use of
arms a profession requiring special training. A nobleman's son served for a
number of years, first as a page, then as a squire, in his father's castle or
in that of some other lord. He learned to manage a horse, to climb a scaling
ladder, to wield sword, battle-ax, and lance. He also waited on the lord's
table, assisted him at his toilet, followed him in the chase, and attended him
in battle. This apprenticeship usually lasted from five to seven years.
CONFERRING OF KNIGHTHOOD
When the young noble became of age, he might be made a
knight, if he deserved the honor and could afford the expense. The ceremony of
conferring knighthood was often most elaborate. The candidate fasted, took a
bath—the symbol of purification—and passed the eve of his admission in prayer.
Next morning he confessed his sins, went to Mass, and listened to a sermon on
the duties of knighthood. This ended, his father, or the noble who had brought
him up, girded him with a sword and gave him the "accolade," that is,
a blow on the neck or shoulder, at the same time saying, "Be thou a good
knight." Then the youth, clad in shining armor and wearing golden spurs,
mounted his horse and exhibited his skill in warlike exercises. If a squire for
valorous conduct received knighthood on the battlefield, the accolade by stroke
of the sword formed the only ceremony.
