Translating the Ancient Code of Chivalry for the Modern Man.
The legacy of chivalry is evident in many aspects of modern society, from our corporate codes of ethics to our cultural references. The ideals of courage, loyalty, and honor that were embodied by medieval knights continue to influence our perceptions of heroism and nobility. We see organizations like the Boy Scouts of America that promotes the values of chivalry through its oath and law. The servant-like traits of selflessness and sacrifice of the Jedi Order in Star Wars, was inspired from the ancient code of chivalry.
The image of the noble knight, sworn to uphold his code of honor and defend the weak, continues to inspire and captivate us in movies, television series and stories such as The Knight’s Tale, The Song or Roland, and Knightfall. They remind us of the importance of integrity, courage, and compassion in our own lives and the impact can be seen in the way we treat one another on a daily basis. The emphasis on respect, compassion, and fairness that was central to the code of chivalry continues to shape our interactions with others. When we strive to be “chivalrous,” we honor the legacy of the knights of old and demonstrate our commitment to creating a more just world.
The “code of chivalry” was a moral and ethical code that guided the medieval knight in everything he did. This code emphasized the importance of the knight to live with virtues such as loyalty, honor, courage, and humility. It was the very base upon which the conduct of knights was imposed and was the greatest measure of how they were perceived by others. Knights were once considered to be members of nobility, or at the very least they were in some variation of being wealthy and were therefore expected to act with a high level of decorum and respectability. The code of chivalry provided a cornerstone for their conduct and a base set of values that they were expected to live by. In this commentary, we will explore the origins of the code of chivalry, the virtues that were expected of knights, and we will examine some notable examples of chivalric behavior displayed by knights and the lasting impact of chivalry on society.
The Origins of Chivalry
Chivalry originated in the early Middle Ages. It was a strictly followed code of conduct that governed the behavior of knights and nobility. The term chivalry is rooted from the French word “cheval,” meaning horse, referring to the mounted warriors. The ideals of chivalry were heavily influenced by feudalism. By the 11th century, chivalry began to take shape as a set of principles that guided the actions of knights, and it became central to the identity of a knight. The code of chivalry was meant to define the behavior and character of a knight, emphasizing virtues as courage, loyalty, and honor.
The Knightly Virtues
The code of chivalry demanded that knights uphold a set of virtues that formed the foundation of their moral character. These virtues were considered essential for a knight to behave honorably and fulfill their duty to their lord, their country, and to the Church.
Courage was the most admired virtue of knights as they were expected to be fearless in battle and have the tenacity to overcome their enemies. Chivalric courage, however, also meant having the moral fortitude to stand up for what was right, even if it meant going against their superiors.
Knights were expected to be loyal to their aristocrat, their country, their fellow knights, and to the church. By their loyalty, Knights were willing to sacrifice even their lives to defend their lord’s honor, uphold their country’s laws and traditions and to defend the Christian faithful and teachings.
Honor was the defining virtue for knights. They were expected to be truthful, just, and compassionate. A knight’s honor was their most valued possession, and they would go to great lengths to defend it, even if it meant risking their lives. It was better to die defending their honor than to live in shame and disgrace.
Humility was practiced as they were expected to be modest, self-effacing and to put the needs of others before their own. Knights were taught to be aware of their own weaknesses, to strive for self-improvement, and to learn from their mistakes.
Justice, an essential virtue for knights, meant they were expected to be fair and impartial in their interaction with others, both in their private lives and on the battlefield. Knights were responsible for upholding the law and ensuring that justice was served.
Another important virtue for knights was that they were expected to be generous with their wealth, time, and talents, giving freely to those in need. They were taught to be hospitable and gracious hosts, displaying their wealth and status, but not flaunting it or using it to oppress others.
Faith was the central virtue for knights, who were deeply religious and saw themselves as soldiers of Christ. Knights were expected to regularly attend the Holy Mass, confess their sins, and take part in holy rituals. They were also expected to defend the Church and protect the faithful from harm, even if it meant sacrificing their own lives. Martyrdom was an honor to be achieved by a knight.
“The true test of a knight was not in his martial prowess, but in his adherence to the code of chivalry and the virtues it embodied.” – Anonymous
The Knight’s Oath and the Knightly Code
The knight’s oath was a solemn promise that bound him to uphold the code of chivalry and defend the honor of his aristocracy. Taking the oath was a pivotal moment in a knight’s life, as it signified their much-like-consecration to God, and his commitment to a life of service, valor, and virtue.
An example of such an oath was “I, Sir [name], do solemnly swear to uphold the knightly code and defend the honor of my lord and lady. I will be brave, loyal, and chivalrous in all my deeds, and will devote myself to the service of God and my liege. So help me God.” Today, the Swiss Guard of the Vatican will make their confirmation and take oath, reciting the following words: “I swear I will faithfully, loyally and honorably serve all that has been read to me thus far.”
The knight’s oath was taken during a religious ceremony, adding great level of significance to the event. It was common for knights to swear their allegiance to a specific lord or lady, who they would protect and serve for the rest of their lives.
The knight’s oath had a profound impact on a knight’s behavior and actions. It was a reminder of their duty to always uphold the code of chivalry, even in the face of adversity. Breaking that code was considered a serious offense and could result in dishonor and disgrace. Knights who violated their oath could be stripped of their titles and lands, and even face excommunication from the Church.
The Role of Religion in Shaping Knighthood
Religion played a significant role in shaping the values and morals of the code of chivalry, being heavily influenced by Christian ideals. Knights saw themselves as defenders of the faith, and their religious beliefs guided their behavior on and off the battlefield.
One of the most conspicuous examples of this religious influence is the perception of honor. Knights believed that they were fighting for a higher purpose and that their actions should be guided by a sense of honor and righteousness. They were defenders of the weak and oppressed, and their chivalric code required that they should always act with integrity and respect towards others.
St. Bernard de Clairvaux highlights the importance of faith in the life of a knight when he wrote, “He who does not love God above all things is not worthy of being called a knight.” It demonstrates how religion was seen as essential to a knight’s character and that their devotion to God was a vital to their overall moral framework.
Chivalry in Practice
The code of chivalry was a way of life for the knight. Throughout history, many examples of chivalrous conduct has been recorded, demonstrating the virtues and morals that were instilled in these noble warriors.
“Be without fear in the face of your enemies. Be brave and upright, that God may love thee. Speak the truth, always, even if it leads to your death. Safeguard the helpless and do no wrong. This is your oath.” – The Oath of the Knight Templar
One of the most iconic examples of chivalry in action is the story of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. Despite facing impossible challenges, Gawain remained loyal, honorable, and chivalrous throughout his ordeal. He demonstrated courage in battle, humility in defeat, and compassion for his opponent.
Another legendary tale is that of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. These knights were renowned for their chivalry and dedication to their king, country and to the code. They swore to protect the innocent, uphold justice, and defend their honor at all costs.
The Enduring Importance of Chivalry
The ideals of chivalry and the legacy of knights continue to resonate in societies around the world today. The virtues of courage, honor, and loyalty are still admired, sought after, and romanticized. The image of the knight in shining armor endures in popular culture.
The code of chivalry serves as a reminder of the importance of ethical behavior and moral values in society. The ideals of chivalry may have originated in medieval times, but they remain just as relevant today and they act as a guide for ethical behavior and a framework for moral courage. These ideals represent a call to action for all of us to strive for excellence in our conduct and behavior. As we move forward, let us honor the legacy of chivalry and strive to embody these virtues in our own lives, as true warriors for Christ, as Knights of the Golden Arrow.
Deus vult!