Medieval Knights

The knight was one of the three types of fighting men during the middle ages: Knights, Foot Soldiers, and Archers.  The medieval knight was the equivalent of the modern tank.  He was covered in multiple layers of armor, and could plow through foot soldiers standing in his way.  No single foot soldier or archer could stand up to any one knight.  Knights were also generally the wealthiest of the three types of soldiers.  This was for a good reason.  It was terribly expensive to be a knight.  The war horse alone could cost the equivalent of a small airplane.  Armor, shields, and weapons were also very expensive.  Becoming a knight was part of the feudal agreement.  In return for military service, the knight received a fief.  In the late middle ages, many prospective knights began to pay "shield money" to their lord so that they wouldn't have to serve in the king's army.  The money was then used to create a professional army that was paid and supported by the king.  These knights often fought more for pillaging than for army wages.  When they captured a city, they were allowed to ransack it, stealing goods and valuables.



Knowing what knights are suppose to look like is a very crucial aspect in re-making a medieval play, but going further and researching detailed information such as what the equivalent cost of a knight suit to the modern day can have a huge impact to actors.  Understanding their character and the significance of their presence to the surroundings can make a difference in their acting.



http://library.thinkquest.org/10949/fief/medknight.html