Chivalry

Definition

Chivalry refers to the medieval knightly system with its moral, social, and religious codes, emphasizing virtues like bravery, honor, and respect for women. This code was integral to the ideals portrayed in literature, influencing narratives about heroism and courtly behavior.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Chivalry emerged in the 11th century and was closely associated with the feudal system, defining the expected behavior of knights and nobles.
2. The concept of chivalry is often linked to the ideals found in medieval romances, which celebrated heroic deeds and courtly love.
3. Chivalric codes included not only martial prowess but also loyalty to one's lord, protection of the weak, and courtesy toward women.
4. Sir Gawain, a key figure in Arthurian literature, exemplifies chivalric values through his quest for honor and integrity in 'Sir Gawain and the Green Knight'.
5. Malory's 'Le Morte d'Arthur' reflects the complexities of chivalry by highlighting both the noble aspirations and tragic failures of its characters.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of chivalry manifest in the characterization of knights in Arthurian legends?
  • In Arthurian legends, chivalry is demonstrated through characters like Sir Lancelot and Sir Gawain who embody the ideals of bravery, honor, and loyalty. Their quests often involve not just physical challenges but moral dilemmas that test their adherence to chivalric codes. This interplay highlights how chivalry shapes their identities and actions within a broader narrative about noble conduct.
• Discuss how French and Latin traditions influenced the development of chivalric themes in Middle English literature.
  • French and Latin traditions significantly impacted Middle English literature by introducing courtly love narratives and complex characterizations of knights. The translation of French romances into Middle English helped solidify the chivalric code as a central theme. Works like 'Le Morte d'Arthur' incorporate these traditions to explore themes of loyalty and valor while also presenting a critique of chivalric ideals through characters' struggles.
• Evaluate the significance of chivalry in shaping the moral frameworks presented in 'Le Morte d'Arthur' and how these frameworks influence later literary works.
  • Chivalry serves as a foundational moral framework in 'Le Morte d'Arthur,' where characters navigate their identities against the backdrop of chivalric ideals. Malory’s depiction of knights grappling with loyalty, honor, and personal failings offers insights into human nature that resonate through later literature. This exploration influences subsequent works by illustrating how adherence to or deviation from chivalric codes can lead to both heroic triumphs and tragic consequences.

Related terms

Courtly Love: A medieval European literary conception of love that emphasized nobility and chivalry, often depicting love as a source of virtue and inspiration.

Knighthood: The status of being a knight, characterized by the adherence to chivalric principles, including loyalty to one's lord, protection of the weak, and martial prowess.

Arthurian Legend: A body of literature and folklore centered around the legendary King Arthur and his knights, showcasing themes of chivalry, bravery, and moral dilemmas.