Cultural Values, Chivalry, & Knighthood Notes

Cultural Values

Commonly held standards of what is acceptable or unacceptable, important or unimportant, right or wrong, workable or unworkable, etc. in a community or society.

Chivalry noun, plural -ries

1. the sum of the ideal qualifications of a knight,including courtesy, generosity, valor, and dexterityin arms. 2. the rules and customs of medieval knighthood. 3. the medieval system or institution of knighthood. 4. gallant warriors or gentlemen: fair ladies and

noble chivalry. 5. Archaic . a chivalrous act; gallant deed. (archaic means marked by the characteristics of

an earlier period)

The Knights Code of Chilvary and the Vows of Knighthood

• To fear God and maintain His Church• To serve the liege lord in valor and faith• To protect the weak and defenseless• To give succor to widows and orphans• To refrain from the wanton giving of offence• To live by honor and for glory• To despise pecuniary reward• To fight for the welfare of all• To obey those placed in authority• To guard the honor of fellow knights• To eschew unfairness, meanness and deceit• To keep faith • At all times to speak the truth• To persevere to the end in any enterprise begun• To respect the honor of women• Never to refuse a challenge from an equal• Never to turn the back upon a foe

Knight’s Code of Chilvary described by the Duke of Burgandy

• Faith • Charity • Justice • Sagacity- acuteness of mental discernment and soundness

of judgment. • Prudence- caution with regard to practical matters; discretion • Temperance- moderation or self-restraint in action,

statement, etc.; self-control. • Resolution- • Truth • Liberality- the quality or condition of being liberal in giving;

generosity; bounty. • Diligence • Hope• Valor- boldness or determination in facing great danger,

especially in battle; heroic courage; bravery

Legends• A story about heroes or

heroines that is handed down from the past. Legends are often based on real people and events. However, as the stories pass through generations, the characters, setting, objects, and events become less factual and more imaginary.

A legend has several characteristics…

• It tells about a hero or heroine who may have unusual powers.

• It focuses on the hero or heroine’s struggle to defeat a powerful force.

• It highlights a positive quality or way of behaving.

King Arthur Legend

• Probably based on a real-life chieftain who lived in Britain around A.D. 500. In the course of many retellings, the setting of the legend changed to the time of knights 900 years later. The character of King Arthur displayed heroic traits such as courage, honor, and fairness that made him a model for others to follow. He has special powers that helped him over come enemies and difficult challenges.