Did Knights Really Fight Like in Movies?

Many of us have been transported to the Middle Ages through the engaging narratives of films and books. However, how accurate is the portrayal of knights and their combat techniques in these media? This article explores whether knights actually fought as depicted in movies and fiction.

Knights and Their Primary Weapons

When knights first appeared in the 8th century, swords were rare and expensive, making them a symbol of nobility and wealth. Nonetheless, knights did carry swords. These weapons were primarily used in close encounters or as a backup, as their main weapon on horseback was the lance.

Armed with armor, stirruped saddles, and specialized techniques, the lance charge was the signature attack of knights, making them formidable on the battlefield. However, if a knight had to fight on foot, they would switch to axes, spears, or other polearms. As armor technology evolved, weapons and armor adapted to meet the new standards, leading to the development of plate armor in the late Middle Ages.

Fighting Techniques and Armor

Films and games often depict knights using their swords in ways that are not historically accurate. Due to the effectiveness of armor, early swords were less effective as weapons in close combat against armored opponents. Surviving fighting manuals from the late Middle Ages suggest that knights used swords creatively, employing techniques such as jabbing to exploit gaps in armor or using the pommel and crossguard to strike and trip adversaries.

Hollywood's Portrayal of Armor and Combat

Armor and combat scenes in films and TV shows are often severely inaccurate. Despite knights being professional warriors, most depictions show them using swords and armor in ways that are ineffective against armored opponents. Armor in real life was highly effective at protecting against most attacks. Steel plates could render many sword strikes useless. While enough force could penetrate armor, these techniques were not regularly used against well-armored foes.

The movement and strategy of an armored fighter differ significantly from an unarmored one. Armor restricts movement and affects the way a fighter can attack or defend. As technology progressed, armor and weapons evolved. For example, the use of different types of helmets, such as single or mixed systems, and the practice of reducing armor for increased mobility and visibility.

Changes in Warfare and Armor

Knights were not the only armored warriors on the battlefield. Lords were expected to equip and train men-at-arms, who were essentially dedicated vassal militia. The level of training and equipment of these men varied, leading to a wide variety of armaments and sometimes obsolete equipment. Some warriors chose to wear less armor for greater mobility, such as removing parts of their helmet or armor to improve breathability and visibility.

In conclusion, the portrayal of knights and their armor in popular media is largely inaccurate. Historical accounts and surviving fighting manuals shed light on more accurate combat techniques. It's time for filmmakers to improve their historical accuracy and provide a more authentic depiction of this era's warfare.