Comparing Medieval Knights and Samurai
Although the two regions never came in contact with one another, there are
many similarities between the knights of medieval Europe and the samurai
of medieval Japan.
Code of Conduct and Consequences
Chivalry: Honor, loyalty,
courtesy and fair
treatment of the weak.
Dishonor among peers.
Bushido: “Way of the Warrior”
Commitment to a military
life.
Faces death “Seppuku”.
Battle Uniforms and Weapons
Mask and armor made
Armor made of steel,
of layers of leather, long
sword, lance,
and short sword,
shields, horse.
spear, and bows and arrows.
Education and Pastimes
Began training at
Began training at age 7.
Age 12 (Squire). Participated in Competed in tournaments and
tournaments.
celebrations. Enjoyed the arts.
Religion
Christianity
Zen Buddhism and Shinto
Comparing Medieval Knights and Samurai
Although the two regions never came in contact with one another, there are
many similarities between the knights of medieval Europe and the samurai
of medieval Japan.
Code of Conduct and Consequences
Battle Uniforms and Weapons
Education and Pastimes
Religion