For a knight to ride in a carriage was against the principles of chivalry and he never under any circumstances rode a mare.
A knight's behavior during the 14th century was heavily influenced by the ideals of chivalry, which dictated strict codes of conduct. Riding in a carriage was seen as unbecoming for a knight, as it contradicted the noble image they were expected to uphold. Additionally, knights adhered to the tradition of riding stallions, which were regarded as more noble and appropriate than mares, reflecting their commitment to the values of their class. This reveals the deep connection between social status and personal conduct during that time period.
Barbara W. Tuchman's "A Distant Mirror: The Calamitous 14th Century" explores these strict expectations, illustrating how they shaped the lives and actions of knights. The refusal to ride a mare serves as an example of how societal norms dictated personal choices, reinforcing the ideals of masculinity and honor within the medieval framework. Such details emphasize the lengths to which individuals went to align their behavior with the expectations of their society.
