Knightly Vigils

A squire's training concentrated on strength, fitness and skill with various weapons. Individual training was only part of the regimen, as knights also needed to know how to fight as part of a team of skilled horsemen, as well as learn swordplay and archery. The squire would care for the knight's horse, clean the stables, polish the knight's armor and maintain his weapons. They would learn the chivalric codes of conduct and listen to epic tales. At the age of majority, when the squire was deemed ready, he would take his vigil.

This included supplicant spends the day before in ritual fasting and prayer. That evening he is stripped down and washed, either by a family member or a close friend. He is then dressed in a new white tunic (symbolizing his purity before man and gods, as well as his symbolic rebirth as a knight). His helm, his sword, possibly prayer beads, and any other items the would-be knight holds in high regard are placed before him as he kneels before an altar, either in a temple or his own personal settings. This position is maintained for the entire night, as he remains in prayer. At daybreak, he is taken before his mentor to be “given his spurs.” He may be simply cuffed on the back of the neck by his mentor’s hand, followed by an admonition to conduct himself with courage, bravery, skill and loyalty. Or, he may be “dubbed,” by the flat of the blade touching his left, then right shoulder, then the crown of his head, instilling the gifts of virtue, honor, and integrity. The blade is presented for him to kiss the hilt before he is given leave to rise, now a full member of the knight’s order.