Being Knighted?

Question

Todays "knights" wouldn't be called up to actually do anything would they

Answer 1

No, nowadays it's just a recognition for charitable work or great contribution to some field.

Answer 2

No. Knights are honored British citizens with the title "Sir" or "Dame" in recognition of their contributions to society. The term "Knight" is the English term for a social position originating in the Middle Ages. In the High and Late Middle Ages, the principal duty of a knight was to fight as, and lead, heavy cavalry. However, in modern time in the United Kingdom, knighthood has become a symbolic title of honour given to a more diverse class of people. There are technically differing levels of knighthood, but in practice these are even more symbolic than the title itself today and thus only express the greatness of the recipient's achievements in the eyes of the Crown. In other words, they were already doing something for society which was why they were knighted in the first place...

Answer 3

Well, of course they were in days gone by, but not today no. Skill gets you nowhere in modern warfare, not when the weediest wretch could gun down the mightiest man with ease.

Answer 4

With people like Elton John and Mick Jagger being knighted, I don't think the Queen is expecting any trouble.

Answer 5

yes, sir alex ferguson has fought many battles.

Answer 6

Knights never were, receiving a knighthood is a way of show recognition for a service to the country.

Traditionally this was for having good military career, today you can receive one for charity work, entertainment etc. anything that has improved the lives of the people.

Answer 7

No. And I don't think they ever were. It is a title bestowed in recognition of a great achievement, any 'traditional' knights would have been older soldiers who got their titles from fighting battles etc.