The romantic notion of a ‘knght in shining armour’ is just that – a romantic notion. In reality becoming a knight in medieval times involved a long and difficult apprenticeship, lasting fourteen years from the age of 7 or 8. Once confirmed in the role, the fully fledged knight still had to work hard to retain his title. He was obliged to serve his king in battle and to provide men for the same purpose, or money in lieu of men. He must also supply provisions for the king’s army. When Henry II invaded Ireland in 1172 his fleet of … Continue reading Knight: #atozchallenge