E X T E N S I O N BECOMING A KNIGHT If a young man wanted to become a knight, he had to go through a long and difficult period of education. At the age of 7 a noble child was sent to the castle of his future patron1. He became a page and learnt the first elements of religion, military arts and courtly life. When he was 14, a page became a squire and began a course of more difficult exercises; for example, he had to ride his horse, run or jump in heavy armour. At the same time a squire was encouraged to choose a lady of the castle and court her2 as the mistress3 of his heart. Moreover a squire learnt more about religious matters and about respect and loyalty to his Lord. The ceremony of initiation of a new knight was particularly solemn. He spent whole4 nights in prayer, he confessed and received the sacrament. Then in snow-white clothes and with a sword he went to the church where there was the ceremony. He kneeled in front of the Lord. The Lord gave him the accolade, that is three strokes5 on the shoulders with the flat6 of a sword. Then he received his helmet, his shield and lance. A knight was a professional soldier. He was usually responsible for his arms, three horses and his flag. Each horse had its own use: one for battle, one for travelling and one for luggage7. He usually had some attendants: one to conduct the horses, another to carry the heaviest arms, another to help him mount his horse for battle and the fourth to guard prisoners. A lance usually carried the flag of the knight s Lord. The flag was a distinctive mark of chivalry. 1. patron: person who supports and gives money to someone. 2. court her: be nice to the lady. 3. mistress (archaic/poet.): sweetheart, beloved. 4. whole: entire, complete. 58 5. stroke: gentle touch. 6. flat: part of sword that does not cut. 7. luggage: bags, cases, etc. that you take with you when you are travelling.