Shock Value: Entry 220 "Chivalry"

Is "Chivalry" dead? I think it depends on who you ask. For those of you who have no idea what "Chivalry" is I will define it for you right now. According to Wikipedia "Chivalry" is a term related to the medieval institution of knighthood which has an aristocratic military origin of individual training and service to others. It is usually associated with ideals of knightly virtues, honor and courtly love.

When examining medieval literature, "Chivalry" can be classified into three basic but overlapping areas:

1. Duties to countrymen and fellow Christians: this contains virtues such as mercy, courage, valor, fairness, protection of the weak and the poor, and in the servant-hood of the knight to his lord. This also brings with it the idea of being willing to give one’s life for another’s; whether he would be giving his life for a poor man or his lord.
2. Duties to God: this would contain being faithful to God, protecting the innocent, being faithful to the church, being the champion of good against evil, being generous and obeying God above the feudal lord.
3. Duties to women: this is probably the most familiar aspect of chivalry. This would contain what is often called courtly love, the idea that the knight is to serve a lady, and after her all other ladies. Most especially in this category is a general gentleness and graciousness to all women.

I write today, specifically addressing "Chivalry" most related to the item number three, what I refer to in lamens terms as being a true gentleman and servant to ALL women. Now that you have a little more background info, I ask again, is "Chivalry" dead? I am not sure "Chivalry" is understood by most Men. But, I am most concerned that Women don't understand what it means to be a Lady. Thus, "Chivalry" still exist, but if each party in the equation isn't aware of their role, "Chivalry" may seem nonexistent. I think most Men know they should open doors, share their coats in the winter, and pull out chairs at the dinner table, but some just don't see the need. Primarily, because they don't feel like the Female is worth all that, or you Ladies, allow him to get away with not fulfilling these duties and still give him your all. In my mind, "Chivalry" is like respect, only those who deserve it, get it. If you expect a Man to treat you with "Chivalry" you must walk, talk, and present yourself as a True Lady. Then, if you are out with a Real Man, you will honorably be a recipient of that which you deserve--- "Chivalry."

~It Ain't Dead, It's Here Somewhere