Were there knights in the 16th and 17th century?

Knights did not cease to exist by the 16th or 17th centuries, but certainly by this time the concept had undergone significant changes and was no longer as central as it once was. Chivalry, the code of conduct and values associated with knights, was still upheld by some, but it was no longer the dominant force in society.

Here are some key points to consider:

Transformation of Chivalry: In the 16th and 17th centuries, the concept of chivalry began to evolve. While the traditional ideals of honor, loyalty, and bravery were still valued, they were no longer limited to knights alone. Chivalry became more associated with the nobility as a whole, and it took on a more ceremonial role.

Emergence of Professional Soldiers: The rise of gunpowder and firearms led to changes in warfare, favoring professional soldiers over traditional knights clad in heavy armor. Knights gradually transitioned into military leaders and commanders.

Knighthood as an Honor: Knighthood continued to be bestowed as an honorific title, but it no longer carried the same military significance as in earlier times. It became more of a symbol of social status and recognition.

Order of the Garter: In England, the Order of the Garter, an elite order of chivalry founded by King Edward III in the 14th century, continued to exist and hold prestigious status.

Decline of Feudal System: The feudal system that had characterized medieval society and defined the role of knights began to decline in the later centuries. This shift affected the traditional knightly values and structures.

Despite these changes, the legacy of knights lived on in literature, art, and cultural traditions, shaping how subsequent generations viewed and remembered chivalry and the knightly ideal.