A squire, in the context of medieval European society, was a young attendant who served a knight and underwent training in the chivalric arts. The term originated from the Old French “escuier,” meaning “shield-bearer,” as squires were responsible for carrying and caring for the knight’s shield, sword, and other weapons. This role placed squires at the heart of martial culture, granting them firsthand experience in how a knight prepared for battle, maintained equipment, and upheld the code of chivalry.
Typically, a young noble would become a squire around the age of 14 after spending time as a page. Squires were expected to learn essential combat skills, horseback riding, and heraldry. They also accompanied their knight into tournaments and sometimes onto the battlefield, where they could prove their courage and skill. Alongside martial training, a squire was taught the ideals of honor, loyalty, and courtesy—values that underscored chivalric society.
