Page "Knight" Paragraph 33

Becoming a knight was not a widely attainable goal in the medieval era.

Sons of knights were eligible for the ranks of knighthood.

While other young men could become knights, in theory, it was nearly impossible for them to achieve that goal, especially for those from the lowest class.

Those who were destined to become knights were singled out: in boyhood, these future warriors were sent off to a castle as pages, later becoming squires.

Commonly around the age of 20, knights would be admitted to their rank in a ceremony called either " dubbing " ( from the French adoubement ), or the " Accolade ".

Although these strong young men had proved their eligibility, their social status would be permanently controlled.

They were expected to obey the code of chivalry at all times, and no failure was accepted.