1. Nobility: Knights were typically members of the noble class, the aristocracy, or landed gentry. They were expected to come from families of high social status and wealth, as knighthood required significant resources for training, equipment, and maintaining a certain lifestyle.
2. Age: Knights were usually between the ages of 14 and 21 when they began their training. This training period, known as 'squirehood,' could last for several years.
3. Physical Attributes: Good health and physical fitness were crucial for knights. They needed strength, agility, and endurance to handle weapons, armor, and participate in combat.
4. Training: Knights underwent a comprehensive and demanding training process under the guidance of an experienced knight or military master. The training included instruction in:
- Chivalry: This encompassed moral values, codes of conduct, and honorable behavior expected of knights.
- Military skills: Knights learned various combat techniques, such as swordsmanship, archery, jousting, and the use of other weapons.
- Horse riding and horsemanship: Knights were expected to be proficient riders and able to control their horses effectively in battle and tournaments.
5. Military Service: Knights were required to serve their lord or king in times of war or conflict. They were expected to demonstrate bravery, loyalty, and skill on the battlefield.
6. Dubbing Ceremony: Upon successful completion of their training and demonstrating their worthiness, squires were dubbed knights in a ceremonial event. The accolade was bestowed by a knight or a person of high authority, usually by tapping the squire's shoulder with a sword and reciting the words of investiture.
7. Code of Chivalry: Knights were expected to adhere to the ideals and principles of chivalry, including courage, honor, loyalty, justice, and protection of the weak and defenseless.
It's important to note that while these were general qualifications and steps, there could be variations in different regions and periods during medieval times, and some exceptions to these requirements might have occurred in certain cases.