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Line 1: − {{stub}}A social position which began in the [[Middle Ages|Middle ages]]. It is not inherited, but must be won by a great deed. However, only noble men could become knights. In modern times, some men have been knighted for non-military deeds (see [[Isaac Newton]]). + − Also, a piece in the [[game]] of [[Chess]].+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + +
→See also
''For the chess piece, see [[Knight (chess)]]''
A '''knight''' is a social position which began in the [[Middle Ages|Middle Ages]]. It is not inherited, but must be won by a great deed. However, only noble men could become knights. Knights adhered to a code of [[chivalry]] and were usually well armored men of means who could be called upon to fight in wars. Some knights also took part in tournaments.
Knights use the title ''Sir'' in English-speaking countries and ''Don'' in Spanish-speaking countries.
In more recent times, a [[Britain|British]] knighthood is one of the highest honours awarded to high achievers from many fields of endeavour including politics (e.g. [[John Major|Sir John Major]]), sport (e.g. [[Ian Botham|Sir Ian Botham]]), science (e.g. [[Isaac Newton|Sir Isaac Newton]] and [[Tim Berners-Lee|Sir Tim Berners-Lee]]) and entertainment (e.g. [[Paul McCartney|Sir Paul McCartney]]).
==Further reading==
* Bradford B. Broughton and Megan Broughton Blumbergs, ''Dictionary of Medieval Knighthood and Chivalry: Concepts and Terms'' (1986) [http://www.questia.com/read/14071940?title=Dictionary%20of%20Medieval%20Knighthood%20and%20Chivalry%3a%20Concepts%20and%20Terms online edition]
==See also==
*[[Knights of St. John]]
*[[Knights Templar]]
[[Category:Medieval History]]