Today I tackle the age old question: Is chivalry dead?
Chivalry stems from the historical tradition of the medieval institution of the knighthood. It refers to a code by which knights conducted themselves back in the day.
The code consists of a number of characteristics including bravery, generosity, courtesy, valour and honour. If you’re still unsure watch Braveheart starring Mel Gibson for a, albeit extreme, lesson in what it means to be chivalrous.
Getting back to the real knights in shining armour, as well as having a warrior code for fighting they also had a moral code to adhere to. This involved protecting those who were unable to protect themselves, being strong and disciplined, telling the truth, and respecting the honour of women.
History lesson over, let’s have a look at the modern man in comparison…
Okay so times have changed. Rather than wearing armour, men wear suits or jeans and a t-shirt. They drive cars rather than riding around the place on a horse. And instead of slaying wild animals, they nip out to the local butchers for two juicy steaks. Different methods, same results, less time.
But of course chivalry is so much more than just creating a good image and reputation which a lot of men take even greater pride in nowadays. It’s also about being strong, protective and caring. And I would argue that the modern man is just that.
In the home, men are still viewed as the stronger sex. Before you jump down my throat ladies, I very much believe in women being just as strong and powerful as men. But when you find you can’t lift something, who do you call? That’s right, you call a man. When you wake up in the middle of the night having heard a noise, who do you tell? Right again, you tell a man.
I think there is still a need or perhaps desire among a lot of women, and I include myself in this group, to feel protected by a man. You cannot deny that it is comforting having one around the house in case of an emergency or in case you need your dishwasher moved. I would also say that men also like to feel that they are needed in this way, especially in modern society where women are so independent and empowered.
In keeping with this notion men do still, more often than not, make the first move in terms of romance. Despite the fact that women are undoubtedly more forthcoming, open about their sexuality and equal in their relationships these days, it’s still nice to have the door opened for you and a hand held out when you’re trying to climb out of a minibus in four inch heels!
So I would argue that the modern man is chivalrous albeit in an evolved notion of the word. Nowadays they don’t just hold doors open and protect you but they are also more considerate of your feelings and know that you can stand on your own two feet.
Chivalry has thus changed over the years and so too has the knight figure. These days he’s a little scruffier around the edges but he’s still a gentleman at heart.
