Could anyone become a knight in medieval times?
In general, any medieval soldier could be considered for knighthood after showing exceptional bravery in battle. The sons of nobles had a foot in the door, though, by virtue of their status and connections. At around the age of eight these children were packed off to a castle to be a page. A page would run errands for a lord or knight, receive basic combat training and get beefed up enough to wear armour and wield a heavy sword. In the classroom a page would be introduced to chivalry and learn how to read, write and speak in French and Latin. In their mid-teens, those who had impressed would be promoted to knight’s squire. Duties could include dressing and waiting on their employer as well as maintaining the knight’s gear and being his shield carrier. Also, a squire’s physical training was more intense because he might have to go into battle alongside his master. If the squire fought well, he could arise to knighthood at around the age of 20. He could then lead his own squires into battle hoping that all his noble training wouldn’t go to waste at the end of an enemy sword.