Knights, also known as knights of the realm or knights bachelor, were important members of medieval society in some European cultures, especially during the High Middle Ages. They were usually men of noble birth who had received military training and were bound to a code of chivalry. They were renowned for their bravery, loyalty, and gallantry. Their primary duty was to protect their lord and his lands, and they were often given estates in return for their service. Some knights were also noblemen in their own right, but not all noblemen were knights.