Medieval culture has never fully disappeared from popular culture. Judging by the large number of medieval-themed books and movies, it's
more popular than ever. Much like today, the characters in these medieval
works all had clearly defined jobs or roles to play. Like today's
occupations, these roles were all part of a process of career growth. For
example, knights only became knights after a long, three-step process
If, at the age of seven, a boy displayed very good manners, smarts, and
courage, his parents might decide they wanted him to become a knight.
He would spend the next seven years as a page, performing simple duties
such as helping knights with their horses and armor.
After completing training as a page at around age 14, the boy would
become a squire. A squire took on more responsibility and received more
hands-on instruction in fighting and battle strategy. He would sometimes
ride into battle with a knight and assist him. In some cases, the squire
would even be required to fight in the knight's place if the knight was
injured.
At the age of 21, the squire was eligible to become a knight. First, he had
to prove himself worthy by showing great bravery, wisdom, and devotion.
If worthy, he would be knighted in a ceremony where he vowed to protect
his kingdom.
Knights perform very different tasks from doctors, teachers, or
professional athletes, but in each of these careers there is a long process
with clearly defined steps for moving up. Perhaps this is one of the
reasons medieval culture has always fascinated us - it has a sense of
order that never went out of style.