knighting

Knighthood is a title and social rank traditionally conferred by a monarch or sovereign to recognize acts of service, valor, or leadership. Originating in early medieval Europe, knights were armored horsemen who served a lord in exchange for protection and land. Over time, knighthood became formalized within the feudal system and became closely associated with the code of chivalry, a set of ideals emphasizing courage, courtesy, and defense of the weak.

The principal ritual for granting knighthood is the investiture or dubbing ceremony. In a typical ceremony, a sword is used to touch the candidate on the shoulders while the sovereign or his or her representative proclaims the recipient a knight. In many orders of knighthood, such as the historic Order of the Garter in the United Kingdom, membership involves solemn oaths, specific insignia, and regalia, and may be restricted to individuals who have achieved particular distinctions or merits.

In modern times, knighthood is largely honorary or ceremonial and is awarded for achievements in the arts, sciences, public service, or humanitarian work, as well as for military service. In the United Kingdom and many Commonwealth realms, the title is expressed as Sir for men and Dame for women, and it does not convey nobility or hereditary rights. Some countries also grant honorary knighthoods to non-citizens, or maintain different systems of orders and decorations with varying privileges.

The concept of knighthood continues to influence cultural notions of chivalry and martial tradition, though its legal and social implications vary by country and historical period.