The Death of Chivalry

Written by JP Carlos

When you say chivalry; many imagine knights saving damsels in distress.  But one does not have to wield swords and wear armors to show chivalry.  Rather, it is the gesture of putting other’s well-being before one’s self.  Gallantry, bravery, loyalty, valor are some words associated with this word.  Has it died with the medieval times?  Or is it alive in some nook and cranny somewhere?

When was the last time you saw someone exhibit such a trait?  Well, noble steeds have been replaced by modern transportation and swords and lances have morphed into other tools of the trade.  But I believe that it still exists until today.  For example, take a look at the men and women of the armed forces, police and other security and safety organizations.  They brave the elements just to secure sovereignty, ensure peace and provide peace of mind to all.  All these for people they barely know.  Also, get a glimpse of what search and rescue teams do.  They put themselves in peril so that they can save lives.  Paramedics and EMTs do this on a daily basis with a conviction that rivals the knights of old.  Likewise, firefighters storm into blazing infernos just to save lives and safe-keep properties.  It is a perilous task but they do it anyway.  Chivalry is alive.  But is it limited to these professions?

I am sure that ordinary people who are not obligated by an oath to a job can exhibit chivalry.  But lately, it is scarce.  When you walk down the road, do you fear for your safety or are enveloped by a feeling of safety and assurance? 

In a world where “I” and “Me” are more important “they” and “us” it is difficult not to think that chivalry is dead except in some professions. Can we still take claim that humanity is selfish and self-centered?  Perhaps.  If chivalry is not dead, it is probably at a terminal state.  It is when we seriously value life, not just our own that chivalry can fight its dead.  When humanity shows courage without fear of losing one’s life for the common good, then chivalry can rise once more as an integral part of humanity.  When people begin to understand that valor is not just about the “kill or be killed” attitude, chivalry will once again become the norm.

If chivalry is not dead, it is dying with each generation that does not value bravery, valor, loyalty and the basic respect for human life.