Judy Taylor
[lwptoc]
Introduction: The Importance of Knights’ Horses
The image of a knight charging into battle on horseback is one of the most iconic in all of history. The horse was an essential part of a knight’s arsenal, allowing him to move quickly across the battlefield, strike with great force, and retreat when necessary. But why did knights require large horses? It turns out that the answer is more complex than you might think.
The Evolution of Knightly Warfare
To understand why knights needed large horses, we need to look at the evolution of knightly warfare. In the early Middle Ages, warfare was dominated by infantry, with the occasional cavalry charge. However, by the 11th century, European armies began to adopt the tactics of the Muslim cavalry, which relied on speed, mobility, and shock tactics. This led to the development of heavy cavalry, or knights, who were armed with lances and rode large, powerful horses.
The Role of the Knight’s Horse in Battle
The role of the knight’s horse in battle was to carry his heavily armored rider into the fray, to charge into enemy lines and scatter them with the force of its impact. The horse also served as a platform from which the knight could shoot arrows or swing his sword. The horse was trained to respond to the rider’s commands, charging forward or turning on a dime as needed. Without a good horse, a knight would be vulnerable to attack and unable to perform his duties on the battlefield.
Why Size Matters: Advantages of Large Horses
So why did knights require large horses instead of smaller ones? The answer lies in the advantages that large horses offered on the battlefield. A large horse could carry a heavily armored rider without becoming exhausted, allowing the knight to fight for longer periods. Large horses were also faster and more powerful, enabling them to charge into enemy lines with greater force. Additionally, a large horse could intimidate the enemy with its size and power, making them more likely to break and run.
The Weight of Knightly Armor and equipment
Another reason why knights needed large horses was the weight of their armor and equipment. A full suit of armor could weigh up to 60 pounds, and the knight would also carry a shield, helmet, and weapons. This added weight would have been too much for a smaller horse to bear, making a larger, stronger horse necessary.
Jousting: The Sport of Knights
Jousting was a popular sport among knights, and it required a different type of horse than those used in battle. Jousting horses were usually larger and more heavily muscled than warhorses, as they needed to be able to carry the weight of the knight’s armor and withstand the force of the impact when the two knights collided.
The Symbolic Importance of Horses for Knights
Horses also had a symbolic importance for knights. They were seen as a symbol of wealth, power, and prestige, and owning a fine horse was a mark of status. In addition, horses were often depicted in art and literature as noble and brave creatures, making them a fitting companion for a knight.
Breeding and Training: The Making of a Warhorse
To create the ideal warhorse, breeders would select horses with the right combination of size, strength, and temperament. These horses would then be trained from a young age to respond to the rider’s commands and tolerate the noise and chaos of battle. Training a warhorse was a long and difficult process, but the end result was a powerful and loyal companion for the knight.
The Economics of Knightly Mounts
Finally, the economics of knightly mounts played a role in the need for large horses. A well-trained warhorse was an expensive investment, and only the wealthiest knights could afford to own them. This meant that owning a large, impressive horse became a way for knights to display their wealth and power.
Legacy of the Knightly Horse: Influence on Modern Breeds
The legacy of the knightly horse lives on in modern breeds such as the Andalusian, the Lipizzaner, and the Friesian. These breeds were developed specifically for use in battle, and they still possess many of the traits that made them ideal warhorses. The importance of knightly horses in history cannot be overstated, and their influence can still be seen today in the world of equestrian sports and horse breeding.
