Knights served lords and the king. They were mainly warriors. Some knights were also lords. They might have to fulfill multiple roles within a manor. Generally, knights were not gentle and chivalrous creatures, like many stories would have us believe. These were brutal warriors who spent much time praying and fighting. They considered themselves as serving a most high purpose- protecting god's intentions on earth by protecting their king and lords. As the era progressed, codes of chivalry became more and more important; many knights began to receive training that was beyond simple combat. They also began to be held to high ethical codes of conduct. Still, however, many knights operated out of self interest.
Go to http://www.lordsandladies.org/daily-life-knight-middle-ages.htm to get an idea what a typical day in the life of a knight was like.
Go to http://www.lordsandladies.org/daily-life-knight-middle-ages.htm to get an idea what a typical day in the life of a knight was like.