Chivalry

Definition

Chivalry refers to the medieval knightly system with its moral, social, and religious codes that emphasized values such as bravery, honor, and respect for women and the weak. It plays a crucial role in shaping the ideals of heroism and noble behavior in medieval literature and society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Chivalry emerged during the 12th century as knights began to adopt a code of conduct that included bravery in battle and protection of the weak.
2. The concept of chivalry was heavily influenced by the romantic literature of the time, which idealized knightly virtues and courtly love.
3. Chivalric codes were often outlined in literature, serving as models for proper behavior among knights in both personal conduct and warfare.
4. Chivalry contributed to the rise of the romantic hero archetype in literature, often depicting knights undertaking quests to demonstrate their valor and virtue.
5. By the late Middle Ages, chivalry began to decline as societal structures changed, leading to the emergence of new ideals that focused less on noble birth and more on merit.

Review Questions

• How did the concept of chivalry influence the portrayal of knights in medieval literature?
  • The concept of chivalry significantly influenced how knights were portrayed in medieval literature by establishing a framework of ideals that emphasized honor, bravery, and respect. Knights became representations of these values through their actions, often undertaking quests that showcased their heroism and adherence to the chivalric code. This portrayal not only served to inspire real-life knights but also shaped societal expectations regarding noble behavior and moral integrity.
• In what ways did chivalry intersect with courtly love in medieval narratives?
  • Chivalry and courtly love intersected in medieval narratives by intertwining the ideals of knightly valor with romantic devotion. Knights were often depicted as pursuing unattainable ladies, showcasing their loyalty and courage through acts of service or combat in their name. This connection elevated both concepts; chivalry provided a moral framework for knights while courtly love added an emotional depth that enriched the stories, creating a complex interplay between honor and desire.
• Evaluate how changes in social structures during the late Middle Ages affected the principles of chivalry and its representation in literature.
  • As social structures evolved during the late Middle Ages, particularly with the decline of feudalism, the principles of chivalry adapted to reflect these shifts. The rigid hierarchies that had once defined knighthood began to blur, allowing for greater emphasis on individual merit rather than noble birth. This change impacted literature by leading to more diverse representations of heroes who embodied chivalric values without necessarily being born into nobility. As a result, narratives began to focus on personal virtue and achievements over traditional aristocratic status, redefining what it meant to be a knight.

Related terms

Knighthood: A social class of knights who were granted land and title in exchange for military service, embodying the principles of chivalry.

Courtly Love: A medieval European literary conception of love that emphasized nobility and chivalric values, often portrayed as a noble and unattainable devotion.

Feudalism:

A hierarchical system of land ownership and duties during the medieval period that established relationships between lords, vassals, and serfs, influencing the practice of chivalry.