SAMURAI AND KNIGHTS

The Medieval Era saw the emergence of two distinct warrior classes in Europe and Japan. These were the Samurai’s and the Knights. They were marked in history as a code for courage and sacrifice. Never had the world seen such courageous and dedicated “military class” before them. Although, they represented two different cultures; they were similar in several ways.

The Samurai’s were the “military class” warriors of Japan. These warriors acted as retainers to greater lords, fighters, and the enforcers of policy and morality. Their importance and influence grew during the Heian Period (794-1185) when the powerful landowners hired them for the protection of their properties. The knights on the other hand were the most significant figure of the feudal system of the European Middle Ages. The word knight derived from the Old English word cniht, the equivalent of the Latin word caballarius, meaning “horseman.” The Knights duty was very much similar like the Samurai’s. Th

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On the other hand, they was supposed to be a good example to the lower classes and had to follow the principles of their religion.

The Japanese Samurai and Western European Knights were similar in their approach to conflict. Where the Samurai’s followed the rules of Bushido where as the Knights followed the rules of chivalry. A Knight in armor would present a very strange appearance on a modern battlefield. Loyalty was said to be important in the pledge between lord and retainer. According to them it was cowardice to continue to live without achieving their aim. Their aim was to achieve their goal. These great warriors had one aim; to serve their lord and be successful. Ironically, the Samurai’s and the Knights came from noble families, since horses, armor, and weapons were costly and their use required long training.

The samurai on the other hand gave their society moral values and acted as sentinels of peace. The institution of knighthood was part of this feudal system. In a sense they were religious military men whose aim was to serve its ruler, country, and its people. His prancing steed and metal coat of mail, the heavy iron helmet that covered his head, the shield that he carried on his left arm, his lance and shinning sword. Their primary weapon was their sword (katana) and it was the distinguishing mark of the Samurai. Like the rules of chivalry that prevailed in Medieval Bushido was based on sack virtues as rectitude, endurance, frugality, courage, politeness, veracity, and especially loyalty to ruler and country.

Approximate Word count = 663
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)

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