Chivalry started in the Middle Ages as a code of behavior that knights followed. Knights were expected to treat their fellow knights and social inferiors with respect and benevolence. This code prohibited knights from attacking the unarmed, and knightly ideals stressed that a good knight fought for glory and Christian purposes and not for profit. Later, knights labored to master the arts as intently as they did the skills of warfare. Writing poetry, singing love songs, and playing musical instruments became indispensable to the feudal knight hoping to entertain his lady. The three major Ideals through which chivalry lives today are courage, courtesy, and loyalty. These ideals of chivalry still continue to influence the behavior of gentlemen today.
The first ideal through which chivalry lives on is courage. Courage is defined as facing danger with confidence and determination, frequently with disregard for one's own personal safety. Courage is usually displayed during war and other times of great adversity. From the Middle Ages to the present men and women have shown their courage by fighting for what they feel is right and standing up for what they believe in. Thousands of men and women join the military to fight for our country every year. This determination is what has helped the honor of chivalry to live on today.
The second ideal through which chivalry lives on is courtesy. General forms of courtesy were developed to enable people to get along together. One example is when people greet each other with a handshake as a sign of trust and peace. Although some forms of courtesy have been relaxed since the Middle Ages many have become a part of written law to ensure tranquility. Many common courtesies have become part of etiquette codes that are formal rules of ideal behavior and good manners. Even today the basis of good manners remains unchanged. Common courtesy and proper etiquette are shown throughout our country today.
