The Days of Knights Trivia Quiz

Answer: William of Poitiers

William of Poitiers was raised to become a knight. Much of what we know about the Norman Conquest of England can be attributed to William. He was not immune, however, from romantising his boss's accomplishments.

Answer: Rodrigo Diaz

Rodrigo Diaz, more commonly known to history as El Cid, was primarily responsible for driving the Muslim forces from Valencia. He ruled Valencia until 1099, the year of his death. After El Cid's death the city was attacked again, and Alfonso VI ordered it evacuated and burned. Valencia remained in Muslim control until 1238.

El Cid roughly translates to "the lord".

Answer: Knights Templar

Hughes de Payens was the first Grand Master of the Knights Templar. When Christians began flocking to Jerusalem, attacks were frequent, and they needed protection. Pope Innocent II blessed the formation of the Knights Templar around 1118, but eventually the group became too big and powerful. It was dissolved by Pope Clement V in 1312.

Answer: William Marshal

William Marshal became one of the wealthiest men in England by winning many tournaments and marrying well. When King John died, Marshal became regent to nine-year-old Henry III.

Answer: Geoffroi de Charny

Geoffroi de Charny carried the standard of the crown, a position of great honor, into battle for King Jean II. He also wrote several books on how a knight should carry himself in battle, honorably and loyally.

Answer: Edward of Woodstock

Edward was the heir apparent of King Edward III. He was a battle-tested veteran when he won the Battle of Poitiers in 1356 and captured King John of France.

Answer: Godfrey of Bouillon

Godfrey of Bouillon, despite raising a large amount of money along with a large army, had no intentions of staying in the Holy Land. He became ruler only reluctantly. After his death he became a legend because of his build and good looks.

Answer: James Douglas

James Douglas was known as "the Black Douglas" by the English and the "Good Sir James Douglas" by his countrymen. Douglas was a skilled warrior and heroic leader. When Robert the Bruce died, Douglas is said to have carried his heart in a cask around his neck to Jerusalem.

Answer: Henry Percy

Sir Henry Percy was a knight who led rebellious factions against King Henry IV. Earlier, Sir Henry had helped Henry IV overthrow Richard II. Later, Sir Henry and his son Henry "Hotspur" Percy teamed up to do battle with Henry IV. "Hotspur" was killed.

Answer: the accolade

The quest for knighthood began at an early an early age, usually seven or eight and culminated in the accolade ceremony. As a page the tasks were generally to serve as a servant. The page was also taught knightly behavior and battle tactics. At 14, the page became a squire to his knight and often followed him in to battle.