- Treason: A knight could be stripped of his knighthood for betraying his lord or country. This could include acts such as spying, attempting to overthrow the government, or joining a rival army.
- Cowardice: A knight could be stripped of his knighthood for displaying cowardice in battle. This could include fleeing from battle, surrendering without a fight, or refusing to obey orders.
- Dishonor: A knight could be stripped of his knighthood for committing a dishonorable act. This could include lying, cheating, stealing, or engaging in sexual misconduct.
- Heresy: A knight could be stripped of his knighthood for practicing heresy. This could include denying the teachings of the Catholic Church, or following a different religion.
- Incompetence: A knight could be stripped of his knighthood for being incompetent in his duties. This could include being unable to perform basic military tasks, or being unable to manage his lands or vassals.
The process for stripping a knight of his knighthood could vary depending on the time period and the region, but it typically involved a formal ceremony in which the knight's sword, spurs, and other symbols of knighthood were taken from him. He might also be required to make a public confession of his crimes.