What is the relationship between knights and nobles?

The relationship between knights and nobles in medieval Europe was primarily one of mutual service and obligation within the feudal system, which characterized the social and economic structure of the time. Knights were typically vassals of nobles, which meant that they swore loyalty to a noble lord and, in return, were granted land or other privileges.

A knight's primary duty was to serve as a mounted warrior in the service of their lord. This included fighting in the noble's army during times of war, participating in tournaments, and providing protection for the noble's land and people. In peacetime, knights could serve as local law enforcers or administrators on behalf of the noble.

Nobles, on the other hand, had the responsibility to protect and maintain their knights. They were expected to provide knights with the means to support themselves and their families, which usually came in the form of land grants known as fiefs. From the income generated by their fiefs, knights could afford their armor, weapons, and warhorses, which were essential for their role in battle.

This relationship was underpinned by the concept of fealty, where the knight pledged loyalty to his noble and vowed to uphold his obligations. In turn, the noble was expected to uphold his end of the bargain by taking care of the knight's needs. The bond between a knight and a noble was cemented through a ceremonial act of homage, where the knight knelt before the noble lord and vowed to become his "man," or loyal servant.