Chivalry

What is Chivalry?

Chivalry was a code of conduct followed by medieval knights, emphasizing values like bravery, honor, loyalty, and respect for women and the weak. Rooted in Christian and feudal ideals, chivalry guided knights in their actions both on the battlefield and in their daily lives, promoting a moral standard for nobility.

The Code of Chivalry

Chivalry was a code of behavior followed by knights during the Middle Ages. It emphasized values like bravery, loyalty, and protecting the weak. Knights were expected to serve their lord, defend the church, and act with honor. While it was mostly about how knights behaved in battle, chivalry also influenced their actions off the battlefield. This code shaped how knights were seen as noble and heroic figures in medieval society.

Knights and Their Oaths

Knights swore oaths to follow the principles of chivalry. They pledged to protect their kingdom, serve their lords, and uphold justice. These promises were often made in ceremonies where knights were “dubbed” and officially recognized. While not all knights lived up to these ideals, the code of chivalry provided a standard for how they should act. It made knighthood more than just fighting—it was also about honor and responsibility.

Protecting the Weak

One of the key ideas of chivalry was protecting those who couldn’t defend themselves. Knights were expected to help peasants, widows, and orphans and to show kindness to others. This responsibility helped create the image of knights as defenders of the helpless. Although not every knight followed this rule, it became a symbol of what they stood for. This idea continues to influence how we view heroes today.

Chivalry and Courtly Love

Chivalry wasn’t just about battle—it also shaped how knights behaved in love and romance. The idea of courtly love encouraged knights to act respectfully toward women and dedicate their heroic deeds to them. Stories of knights rescuing damsels or competing for a lady’s favor became popular in medieval literature. While these tales were often idealized, they added a romantic side to the concept of chivalry.

The Influence of Religion

Religion played a big role in shaping chivalry. Knights were expected to defend the church and uphold Christian values. They were also encouraged to show mercy to their enemies, reflecting teachings about forgiveness. Religious ceremonies often accompanied knighthood, emphasizing the connection between faith and duty. This combination of religion and honor made chivalry a spiritual as well as social code.

Medieval Literature and Chivalry

Many medieval stories celebrated the ideals of chivalry. Tales like The Song of Roland and Le Morte d’Arthur featured brave knights fighting for justice and honor. These stories inspired readers and reinforced the values of the time. Characters like King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table became symbols of chivalry. These tales continue to shape how we imagine knights and their adventures.

Challenges to the Code

Not all knights lived up to the ideals of chivalry. Some used their power to exploit others instead of protecting them. During wars, knights sometimes prioritized personal gain over honor. These failures led to criticism of the code, even during medieval times. Despite these challenges, chivalry remained an important cultural ideal that people admired and strived to follow.

Training to Become a Knight

Becoming a knight required years of training. Boys started as pages, learning basic skills and manners, before becoming squires and assisting knights. Squires learned how to fight, care for horses, and follow the code of chivalry. Once they proved their bravery and skill, they could be knighted in a formal ceremony. This long process ensured that knights were prepared for both battle and the responsibilities of their role.

The Decline of Chivalry

Chivalry began to decline in importance as the Middle Ages ended. New technologies, like gunpowder and cannons, made knights less central to warfare. Societies also became more focused on laws and governments instead of personal honor. However, the ideals of chivalry—like courage and protecting others—did not disappear. They remain a symbol of heroism and nobility.