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Once Knight: Good Knights, Bad Knights, and the Chivalrous Ideal

Deacon Bell

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Published in Once A Knight: Good Knights #1

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The concept of chivalry has been romanticized and idealized for centuries, but what was it really like to be a knight in the Middle Ages? This article explores the complex and often contradictory nature of chivalry, and the ways in which it shaped the lives of those who lived by its code.

The Origins of Chivalry

The origins of chivalry can be traced back to the early Middle Ages, when mounted warriors began to emerge as a distinct social class. These warriors were often the sons of wealthy landowners, and they were trained from a young age in the arts of war. As they gained experience in battle, they began to develop a code of conduct that emphasized honor, valor, and loyalty.

Once a Knight: Good Knights #1

by Christina Dodd

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
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The chivalric code was not simply a set of rules, but rather a way of life. Knights were expected to be brave, courteous, and just. They were also expected to be humble and pious, and to show mercy to their enemies.

The Ideal Knight

The ideal knight was a paragon of virtue. He was brave, strong, and handsome. He was also courteous, polite, and well-spoken. He was devoted to his lord and his lady, and he was always ready to fight for what was right.

Of course, not all knights lived up to this ideal. Some knights were cruel, greedy, and self-serving. But even the worst knights were expected to follow the chivalric code, at least to some extent.

The Reality of Chivalry

The reality of chivalry was often far removed from the ideal. Knights were often involved in brutal and bloody battles. They were also known to commit acts of violence and cruelty against civilians.

Despite the shortcomings of some knights, the chivalric code did have a positive impact on medieval society. It helped to create a sense of order and justice in a world that was often chaotic and violent.

The Legacy of Chivalry

The legacy of chivalry can still be seen today in the values that we hold dear. We still admire bravery, courage, and loyalty. We still believe in the importance of honor and justice.

The chivalric code may have been a product of its time, but its ideals continue to inspire us today.

Good Knights

There are many examples of good knights throughout history. One of the most famous is Sir Lancelot, who was a member of King Arthur's Round Table. Lancelot was known for his bravery, strength, and courtesy. He was also a devoted lover of Queen Guinevere.

Another good knight was Sir William Marshal, who served as regent of England during the minority of King Henry III. Marshal was known for his wisdom, justice, and loyalty. He was also a skilled warrior who fought in many battles.

Bad Knights

There are also many examples of bad knights throughout history. One of the most infamous is Sir Geoffrey de Mandeville, who was known as "the Devil's Son." Mandeville was a cruel and ruthless tyrant who terrorized the people of Essex.

Another bad knight was Sir John Hawkwood, who was known as the "White Hawk." Hawkwood was a mercenary who fought for whoever paid him the most money. He was known for his brutality and his lack of scruple.

The Chivalrous Ideal

The chivalrous ideal was a complex and often contradictory one. It was based on the idea that knights were a special class of warriors who were bound by a code of honor. This code required knights to be brave, courteous, and just. It also required them to be humble and pious.

The chivalrous ideal was never fully realized, but it did have a significant impact on medieval society. It helped to create a sense of order and justice in a world that was often chaotic and violent.

The concept of chivalry has been romanticized and idealized for centuries, but it was a complex and often contradictory reality. Knights were both good and bad, and the chivalrous ideal was often difficult to achieve. Nevertheless, chivalry did have a positive impact on medieval society, and its ideals continue to inspire us today.

Once a Knight: Good Knights #1

by Christina Dodd

4.3 out of 5