What is Chivalry: The Noble Code of Medieval Knights

Chivalry, a term that conjures images of gallant knights, heroic quests, and noble deeds, is a code of conduct that emerged and evolved in Europe between the years 1170 and 1220. Rooted in the medieval Christian institution of knighthood, chivalry established the behavioral standards for knights and gentlemen. In this article, we will delve into the origins of chivalry, its fundamental principles, and its influence on various aspects of medieval life. We will also explore how chivalry faced challenges and eventually declined, leaving behind a lasting legacy that continues to shape our perceptions of virtue and honor.

Table of Contents

The Origins of Chivalry

Chivalry found its roots in the Carolingian Empire, where it initially idealized the cavalryman. This concept encompassed military valor, rigorous training, and a deep commitment to serving others, all while carrying the ever-present sword by a knight’s side. It thrived among horse soldiers in Charlemagne’s cavalry, particularly in the region of Francia.

As time passed, chivalry’s meaning expanded to encompass broader social and moral virtues. By the Late Middle Ages, the code of chivalry had transformed into a moral system, merging a warrior’s ethos with knightly piety and courtly manners. These elements collectively formed the foundation of honor and nobility.

The Ten Commandments of Chivalry

In 1884, historian Léon Gautier compiled the medieval Ten Commandments of chivalry. These principles guided the behavior of knights and gentlemen and provided a framework for their actions. Let’s take a closer look at these commandments:

Believe and observe all teachings of the Church: Chivalry emphasized the importance of faith and religious devotion, making it a cornerstone of knightly conduct.
Defend the Church: Knights were expected to protect the Church, reinforcing the close relationship between chivalry and Christianity.
Show respect to the weak and defend them: This principle highlighted the duty of knights to protect and aid those who were vulnerable or in need.
Love your homeland: Loyalty to one’s homeland was considered a noble virtue, and knights were expected to defend their nation.
Never fear your enemies: Fearlessness in the face of danger was a hallmark of chivalry, for God’s strongest soldiers face their toughest battles with unwavering bravery, embodying the very essence of chivalry. Knights, paragons of courage, exemplify this fearlessness, standing resolute against all odds.
Wage ceaseless war against the infidel without mercy: This commandment reflected the chivalric duty to combat non-believers and protect Christendom.
Fulfill your feudal duties, provided they do not conflict with God’s laws: Knights were required to balance their obligations to their lords with their commitment to God.
Always speak the truth and remain faithful to your word: Honesty and integrity were highly valued, and knights were expected to uphold their promises.
Be generous and provide for others: Generosity was considered a noble quality, demonstrating a knight’s contempt for greed.
Champion the Right and the Good against Injustice and Evil: Knights were entrusted with the responsibility of upholding justice and combating evil, making them protectors of the moral order.

The Pre-Chivalric Noble Habitus

Before the codification of chivalry, an uncodified code of noble conduct known as the noble habitus prevailed. This code encompassed several key virtues that formed the basis of a knight’s character and behavior:

Loyalty: Loyalty was closely linked to a knight’s prowess and reputation. Knights were expected to be loyal to their lord and comrades.
Forbearance: Knights exhibited self-control, even when dealing with other warriors or in the presence of their lords. This self-discipline was seen as a sign of true nobility.
Hardiness: Physical resilience and battlefield prowess were essential attributes of a knight. A knight’s ability to endure and excel in combat was a testament to their character.
Largesse: Generosity was a noble quality, demonstrating a knight’s contempt for greed. Knights often displayed their largesse by supporting poets, artists, and those in need.
The Davidic Ethic: This concept drew from Biblical tradition, emphasizing the strong protecting the weak and promoting justice. Knights saw themselves as champions of the oppressed, inspired by the heroic deeds of Biblical figures.

Chivalry in Action

Chivalry influenced not only the battlefield but also other aspects of life in the medieval world. It extended its reach to activities such as hunting and heraldry. The ideals of chivalry encouraged knights to uphold honor, courage, and a strong sense of service to others. Tales of chivalric heroes and knights’ valor became legendary, further solidifying the code’s importance in medieval society.

For instance, during a hunt, chivalrous behavior required knights to adhere to principles of fairness and honor. They were expected to give their prey a fair chance and not engage in unsportsmanlike conduct. This hunting chivalry extended to tournaments and jousts, where knights would compete in contests of skill and strength while adhering to a strict code of conduct.

In heraldry, chivalry influenced the design of coats of arms and other symbols of nobility. These heraldic devices conveyed a knight’s identity, lineage, and achievements. They were displayed proudly on shields, banners, and armor, serving as a visual representation of a knight’s adherence to the chivalric code.

Challenges and Decline

As warfare evolved and societies changed, chivalry faced challenges and eventually declined. One significant shift was the emergence of nationalism, which redirected the focus from defending the faith to defending one’s nation. This change in perspective contributed to a shift in the values and priorities of knights and nobility.

By the mid-20th century, chivalry was perceived as outdated, and the dueling culture associated with it had waned. The modern world had moved away from the traditional ideals of medieval chivalry, replacing them with new values and codes of conduct.

The Legacy of Chivalry

Although chivalry may have diminished as a living code, its legacy persists in various ways. The chivalric ideal of protecting women, while debated in contemporary discussions of gender equality, remains relevant. It highlights the historical connection between chivalry and the concept of chivalric love, where knights were inspired to perform heroic deeds in the name of their beloved.

Furthermore, the principles of honor, courage, and selflessness continue to inspire individuals and serve as a timeless model of virtuous conduct. In the modern world, these ideals resonate with those who seek to embody the noble qualities of chivalry, even if the context has shifted from medieval battlefields to everyday life.

In a world that has evolved significantly since the days of medieval knights, the spirit of chivalry lives on in the pursuit of noble values and the belief in the power of honor and virtue. While the armor-clad knights of old may have faded into history, their legacy endures as a testament to the enduring human quest for nobility and righteousness. Chivalry, in all its complexity and evolution, continues to remind us of the timeless aspiration to be heroes in our own right, defending what is right and just, and serving as beacons of honor and courage.