What are the modern-day requirements to become a Knight?

Question

This question is generally directed toward anyone who lives in the United Kingdom or anyone who knows about modern British culture.

I just want to know this for my own information. As an American, I am kind of shady about the details of what it takes to be a modern-day knight. From my perspective, it seems to be a form of popularity contest.

Back in the middle ages, knights were generally anyone with military gifts - whether it be an excellent swordsman or strategist. I also know that they had to follow the acts of chivalry.

Forgive me, but I can't see Elton John matching any of these qualities. (In fact, Elton John with a sword is a scary thought.)

Any information you give would be most appreciated.

Answer 1

well, the up to the minute, and slightly cynical answer would be 'loan the Labour Party a large sum of money' ...

but I reckon you need some more than that.

Typically the Honours are given for some element of service, whether to a particular industry like Sports, or business, or the Civil Service. Traditionally in order to be chosen for such an honour (if it is an honour) then you need to have made a significant contribution, service or achievement one way or another.

In the case of Elton John, Mick Jagger, these guys have made quite some contribution either to the music industry, or for charitable work in Micks case.

Usually the honours start with an MBE (Member of The British Empire) then an OBE (order of the Brtish Empire) then the CBE (Command Of The British Empire), and after that it's a Kinghthood (KBE - kinight of the British Empire), followed by various addons like Grand Cross and so on

During John Major's premiership in the 1990's there was a major overhaul, and now ordinary people can recommend their neighbours for an honour.

Of course, for every 50 that make some sort of sense, we get one like Bono, who hasn't had to contribute anything to the UK, or actually give up anything in life to receive an honorary knighthood just before Christmas...he just happened to be a friend of Tony Blair...

It's always a contentious subject, and even more so now with the investigation by the police into the current 'Loans for Peerages' scandel.

You can read more details by clicking my link below.

I hope that helps

Philip

Answer 2

Modern Knight

Answer 3

Central Chancery of the Orders of Knighthood

The Central Chancery of the Orders of Knighthood is a small office within the Royal Household of the Sovereign of the United Kingdom responsible for the administration of Orders of Chivalry and some aspects of honours in general. It does not deal with nominations or decisions on appointments, but rather administers the appointment procedures and investitures, and provides the insignia.

Since 1991 the Secretary of the Central Chancery has been the same individual who also serves as Assistant Comptroller to the Lord Chamberlain's Office.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Orders_of_knighthood_of_the_United_Kingdom

http://www.apfn.org/apfn/knighthood.htm

Knighthood

Swearing the Oath:

Crown: Upon which sword do you wish to swear your Oath?

Candidate:
Upon the sword of His Imperial Majesty.

Answer 4

In Elton's case, I believe his donations to charities was a big factor. The Elton John Aids Foundation has raised a lot of money for the cause.

Answer 5

1. General Requirements:
Candidates for any order conferring a Patent of Arms must meet the following minimum criteria. Additional requirements may be set by law and custom of the kingdoms as deemed appropriate and necessary by the Crown.


They shall have been obedient to the governing documents of the Society and the laws of the kingdom.
They shall have consistently shown respect for the Crown of the kingdom.
They shall have set an example of courteous and noble behaviour suitable to a peer of the realm.
They shall have demonstrated support for the aims and ideals of the Society by being as authentic in dress, equipment and behaviour as is within their power.
They shall have shared their knowledge and skills with others.
They shall have practiced hospitality according to their means and as appropriate to the circumstances.
They shall have made every effort to learn and practice those skills desirable at and worthy of a civilized court. To this end they should have some knowledge of a wide range of period forms, including but not limited to literature, dancing, music, heraldry, and chess, and they should have some familiarity with combat as practiced in the Society.
They should participate in Society recreations of several aspects of the culture of the Middle Ages and Renaissance.

Answer 6

Exceptional service in some field or other, whether it be entertainment, sport or industry. Look out for the New Year's honours or the Queen's birthday honours lists.

Answer 7

Get a white horse, then a suit of armour. Then ride all over the countryside beating up bad dudes and dragons and stuff.

Answer 8

If you are or when you become 21, join the Freemasons and then you will find the answer to this question.

Answer 9

Don't forget one of the main ways knights of old attained their knighthood was simply through inheritance, riches, and royal heritage.

Answer 10

Well first you start of as a day and when you grow up you become a knight....