A knight on a horse demonstrating code of chivalry

The Code Of Chivalry Of The Medieval Knights

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Last updated on October 11th, 2023 at 10:25 am

The Code of Chivalry might no longer make a splash, but its echoes linger everywhere you look, and the lessons it teaches will remain for generations to come.

When I imagine myself living in the medieval era, I don’t know if it’s to be grateful to Providence for bringing me to this time.

It was a tough period to be human and even tougher to be in Europe. There were tough emotional, mental and physical training men underwent to be regarded in society, or remain in perpetual ridicule.

In this post, we are going to look into the revered Code of Chivalry, which served as a compass of behaviour for medieval knights.

Table of Contents

What is the Code of Chivalry Proper?

Birthed in the medieval era, the code of chivalry is made up of a set of virtues and guides that drove the behaviour of knights, who were medieval gentleman-soldiers born high and usually trained by privileged military status after completing training as pages.

I see the code of chivalry as also a moral and social code as it centered on the good of society with honesty, generousity, and courtesy as the watchwords.

Despite the medieval origins of the Code of Chivalry, the legacy continues to influence concepts of honour and chivalry in modern society.

Related: The Courtly Romance between Knights and Ladies

Historical Background of the Code of Chivalry

The Code of Chivalry emerged during the medieval period, specifically in the 12th century, as a response to the chaotic and violent nature of the time. The set of moral and ethical guidelines governed the behaviour of knights, shaping their actions and defining their character.

The origins of chivalry can be traced back to the military practices of the ancient Romans and Greeks.

See a dedicated post on the history of chivalry.

However, it was the medieval knights who truly embraced and refined this code, transforming it into a noble ideal. They sought to bring a sense of order and civility to the chaos of war. The emergence of knights, the valiant warriors who emerged as protectors of the land changed Europe’s perspective.

A humble knight on his knees expressing code of chivalry

The concept of chivalry sprang forth like a wild stallion, carrying with it a unique combination of martial prowess, religious devotion, and a code of conduct that would govern the knights’ every action.

It was a grand display of honour, courtesy, and loyalty, designed to transform mere warriors into paragons of virtue.

The roots of chivalry reached deep into the soil of medieval culture. It drew inspiration from the tales of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table, those legendary figures whose deeds were whispered by bards in mead halls across the land.

These tales of honour, bravery, and romance captured the imagination of knights, igniting a fervour within them to emulate their illustrious heroes.

As knights rose in prominence, so did their need for a guiding principle. And thus, the Code of Chivalry was born, a moral compass to steer them on their noble path.

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Related: The Meaning of a Distinguished Gentleman

Is the Code of Chivalry Still Relevant Today?

In this fast-paced era, the Code of Chivalry remains relevant, offering us a guiding light amidst the chaos.

As we battle self-interest and selfishness, chivalry reminds us to rise above our own desires and consider the well-being of others. It teaches us the value of kindness, empathy, and treating one another with dignity, regardless of our differences.

Chivalry challenges us to be courageous, not merely in the face of physical danger, but also in standing up for what is right and just. It urges us to be the voice of reason amidst the clamor, to champion noble causes and defend those who cannot defend themselves.

Related: Why People Think Chivalry is Dead

In a time when integrity and moral fortitude can seem scarce, the Code of Chivalry beckons us to be beacons of virtue, lighting the way for others to follow.

Moreover, chivalry reminds us of the importance of personal growth and self-improvement. It encourages us to strive for excellence, not only in our physical endeavors but also in the refinement of our character.

In our interactions with others, the principles of chivalry encourage harmonious relationships and create a sense of community. They inspire us to listen with empathy, speak with courtesy, and extend a helping hand to those in need.

Furthermore, chivalry transcends gender and serves as a reminder that honour and courage are not confined to a particular sex.

By embracing the Code of Chivalry in our daily lives, we can create a world that values honour, kindness, and integrity—a world where the bonds of community are strengthened, and the human spirit soars.

Knights’ Code of Chivalry

1. Honour and Integrity

Honour and integrity stand as pillars of the Code of Chivalry. They are the radiant jewels that adorn the knightly soul, shining forth with a brilliance that captivates hearts and inspires generations.

Honour, like a noble steed, gallops through the veins of chivalry, urging knights to uphold truth, justice, and righteousness. It demands that they stay true to their word, fulfilling their promises with unwavering dedication.

It is the cornerstone upon which trust is built, for a knight’s honour is his bond – a sacred oath that echoes through the halls of time. Integrity, that gleaming armor of the soul, protects the knight from the corroding touch of deceit and treachery.

It demands consistency between one’s actions and one’s values, forging a path of righteousness even in the face of adversity.

Related: How a Gentleman Can Win the Heart of a Lady

In a world where duplicity and moral ambiguity can cast a shadow upon our hearts, honour and integrity shine forth as guiding stars.

They remind us of the importance of acting with honesty, even when faced with temptation or hardship.

They call us to be individuals of strong character, standing tall and unyielding in the face of moral challenges.

In the realm of chivalry, honour and integrity are not mere words; they are the lifeblood that courses through the veins of every knight.

They form the bedrock upon which the Code stands, infusing it with an enduring power that transcends time and resonates within our souls.

2. Courage and Bravery

Courage and bravery were revered as fundamental principles and values within the Code of Chivalry.

Knights were expected to display unwavering bravery in the face of danger, to fearlessly charge into battle, and to protect the weak and defenseless.

They were to be the epitome of courage, inspiring others with their fearless acts.

The Code of Chivalry recognized that true courage went beyond physical strength and prowess in combat.

It encompassed the ability to face adversity with resilience and determination, to stand up for what was right, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

Knights were expected to exhibit moral courage, to uphold justice and defend the innocent, regardless of personal risk.

Bravery was not just a virtue to be displayed on the battlefield, but in all aspects of a knight’s life.

It required them to confront their own fears and insecurities, to act with integrity and honour, even when it was easier to turn a blind eye.

Courage and bravery were the pillars upon which the knights built their reputation and earned the respect of their peers and the admiration of the people they served.

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3. Loyalty and Devotion

Courage and bravery were revered as fundamental principles and values within the Code of Chivalry. Knights were expected to display bravery in the face of danger, to fearlessly charge into battle, and to protect the weak and defenseless.

They were to be the standard of courage, inspiring others with their bold and fearless acts. It prided on the ability to face the worst situations with resilience and determination, to stand up for what was right, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

Bravery was not just a virtue to be displayed on the battlefield but in all areas of a knight’s life. It required them to confront their own fears and insecurities, to act with integrity and honour, even when it was easier to turn a blind eye. Courage and bravery were the pillars upon which the knights built their reputation and earned the respect of their peers and the admiration of the people they served.

4. Respect and Courtesy

Respect and courtesy were esteemed principles and values within the Code of Chivalry, guiding the behaviour and interactions of knights. Knights were expected to show respect to all, regardless of their social status or position.

They were to treat others with dignity and honour, recognizing the inherent worth and humanity in every individual. Courtesy, too, played a vital role in the knightly code. Knights were to be polite, well-mannered, and considerate in their dealings with others.

They were to be polished gentlemen with proper etiquette. The knights displayed graciousness and kindness, even in the midst of conflict. The courtesy extended not only to fellow knights but also to those of lower rank, to women, and to the elderly.

Respect and courtesy were not merely superficial gestures, but reflections of a knight’s inner character. They demonstrated humility and, acknowledged that true strength lay not in arrogance or aggression, but in treating others with kindness and empathy.

Related: Modern Chivalry for Navigating Modern Society

5. Protection of the Weak and Defenseless

The protection of the weak and defenseless was a core principle and value within the Code of Chivalry, conveying the noble duty of knights to be champions of justice and compassion.

Knights were expected to use their strength and skills not only for personal gain or glory but to shield the vulnerable. The weak and defenseless included not only women and children but also the elderly, the oppressed, and those who could not defend themselves.

They were to stand up against tyranny and cruelty, using their power to ensure the safety and well-being of those who could not fend for themselves.

This principle went beyond physical protection. Knights were also expected to be at the forefront of law and justice, ensuring fair treatment and advocating for their rights.

They were to be voices for the voiceless, using their influence and position to bring about positive change and make the lowly feel they are part of the society.

6. Justice and Fairness

Justice and fairness played a key role in the Code of Chivalry by serving justice and fairness. It is easy for the rich and mischievous in society to use their wealth and power to oppress the lowly. It is also easy to be a victim of bias when favour is given.

Even though there were cases of corrupt knights, generally, justice and fairness made knights uphold the virtue of justice and fairness. They exercised the ability to deliver truthful judgment without favour and could be seen in making sure the weak and the lowly were not shoved further into the bottom of society.

The 10 Commandments of Chivalry

Apart from the principles and values of the code of chivalry, the following commandments also guided the life of knights.

However, these rules were not consistent with many groups, as each group had different views on chivalry.

The Commandments of Chivalry

  • Thou shalt believe all that the Church teaches and thou shalt observe all its directions.
  • Thou shalt defend the Church.
  • Thou shalt respect all weaknesses, and shalt constitute thyself the defender of them.
  • Thou shalt love the country in which thou wast born.
  • Thou shalt not recoil before thine enemy.
  • Thou shalt make war against the infidel without cessation and without mercy.
  • Thou shalt perform scrupulously thy feudal duties, if they are not contrary to the laws of God.
  • Thou shalt never lie, and shalt remain faithful to thy pledged word.
  • Thou shalt be generous, and give largesse to everyone.
  • Thou shalt be everywhere and always the champion of the Right and the Good against Injustice and Evil.
Wikipedia

Symbolism and Traditions Associated with the Code of Chivalry

The Code of Chivalry was known to have some traditions revolving around it, which it unfolded for the spectacles of the public.

Here are the associated traditions that chivalry was proudly displayed:

Heraldry and Coat of Arms

Heraldry, with its majestic coat of arms, served as a visual language that spoke volumes about a knight’s lineage, achievements, and allegiances.

These intricate designs adorned shields, banners, and attire, symbolizing the knight’s identity and affiliation.

Heraldry, passed down through generations, not only included family pride but also became a means of recognition and honour on the battlefield.

The Chivalric Order and Knighthood Ceremonies

The chivalric order was a revered institution that bestowed knighthood upon worthy individuals.

These orders, such as the Knights Templar or the Order of the Garter, held strict codes of conduct and ideals.

The path to knighthood involved a solemn ceremony, often conducted in a grand setting.

This sacred rite transformed the aspirant into a knight, binding them to the principles of chivalry and marking their entry into an esteemed brotherhood.

Tournaments and Jousting

Tournaments and jousting emerged as vibrant spectacles that reflected the valour and skill of knights.

These events showcased the prowess of combatants, providing a platform for knights to demonstrate their mastery of the martial arts.

The joust, in particular, symbolized the knight’s courage, horsemanship, and accuracy.

These thrilling contests served not only as entertainment but also as opportunities for knights to prove themselves and gain renown.

Courtly Love and Romantic Ideals

Courtly love is mostly an art that made chivalry popular in today’s people. In fact, this is what people of today remember chivalry for – sneaking into the hearts of women.

Courtly love was a knightly tradition of love and romance between a married noblewoman and a knight who was an architect of the troubadours of France which was extensively practiced in Europe at the time.

Courtly love celebrated the purity and devotion between a knight and a noble lady, imbued with the essence of admiration, reverence, and unreciprocated love.

This unrequited desire spurred the knights to perform great dangerous feats of valour to get the admiration of their desired ladies.

These traditions and symbols formed a rich love situaition of medieval society, interwoven with the ideals and aspirations of chivalry.

They elevated the knightly experience, bestowing a sense of identity, purpose, and a framework for noble behaviour.

The Decline of Knighthood and Feudalism

As the medieval period gave way to new epochs, the traditional structures of knighthood and feudalism gradually collapsed.

With the rise of centralized monarchies and the advent of gunpowder warfare, the role of knights as mounted warriors diminished.

The decline of feudalism and the emergence of professional armies brought about a shift in power and social dynamics, leading to a decline in the prominence of chivalry as a way of life.

Also, fast-forward to the Renaissance and Enlightenment eras, chivalry experienced a metamorphosis as it transformed from a warrior-centric code into a more refined set of values associated with courtly behavior and gentlemanly conduct.

The emphasis shifted towards intellectual pursuits, social refinement, and the cultivation of arts and literature.

The ideals of chivalry found expression in the works of Renaissance thinkers, who championed virtues such as wisdom, reason, and civility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the medieval knights code of chivalry?

The medieval knights’ code of chivalry was a set of moral and social rules that emphasized virtues like honor, loyalty, bravery, and courtesy.

What are the 10 Commandments of the Code of Chivalry?

The 10 Commandments of the Code of Chivalry varied, but common principles included defending the weak, being truthful, showing mercy, and honoring one’s word.

What are the six standards of the chivalric code?

The six standards of the chivalric code often included loyalty, courage, honor, justice, generosity, and courtesy, guiding knights in their conduct and interactions.

What are the 4 codes of chivalry?

The four codes of chivalry typically covers loyalty to God, loyalty to the feudal lord, loyalty to the lady of the heart, and the defense of the weak and oppressed.

Conclusion

The Code of Chivalry and the gallant medieval knights stand as beacons of honour and virtue to date.

Their legacy, forged through medieval times, continues to inspire and captivate our imaginations.

The ideals of chivalry, with its emphasis on honour, courage, justice, and respect, transcend the ages, reminding us of the noble potential within humanity.

While the world has changed, and the clatter of armor has faded, the spirit of chivalry endures, calling us to be knights in our own right, wielding the sword of integrity and championing the timeless values that defined the knights of old.