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It is usually associated with ideals of knightly virtues, honor and courtly love.
Some of the principles chivalry developed on its own were prowess (courage, strength, skill), the tradition of courtly love, and largesse (generosity).
Knights were supposed to follow a code of Chivalry. Chivalry is loyalty to the Feudal system (their lord), loyalty to God and remaining true to Chrisitianity, and also included courtly love. Courtly love was devotion to a woman by showing her gentleness and graciousness and always trying to be the best, in a sense. Knights were pledged to follow this, but few actually were like the Knights you read in stories. But Chivalry is pretty much what was suppose to govern their actions.
Troubadours sang mostly of chivalry and courtly love. There is a link to an article on them below.
Troubadours sang mostly of chivalry and courtly love. There is a link to an article on them below.
They didn't create it; however, they played a significant role in spreading the customs of courtly love throughout Europe. They served as patronesses to some of the most prominent literary men of the age, and commissioned many of the most celebrated works of courtly literature.
Geoffroi de Charny has written: 'A knight's own book of chivalry : Geoffroi De Charny' -- subject(s): Chivalry, Courtly love, Early works to 1800, Knights and knighthood
A key factor in the increased popularity of poetry about courtly love in the Middle Ages was the cultural shift towards the romanticization of love and chivalry among the nobility. The troubadours and trouveres played a significant role in spreading these themes through their poetry and songs, which were often performed at courtly gatherings. Additionally, the rise of courtly love poetry coincided with the development of the concept of courtly etiquette and manners.
The knight went to into battle for duty, chivalry, and honor which are traits that he exemplifies. The squire while similar to his father is different because he fights for the ideal of courtly love.
Chaucer introduces Pertelote in "The Nun's Priest's Tale" as a hen inspired by the doctrine of courtly love. He describes her as vital, charming, and responsible for bringing order and beauty to their household. Through Pertelote, Chaucer alludes to courtly love's themes of love, beauty, and chivalry.
Chivalry was popularized in medieval Europe through literature, particularly through tales of knights and courtly love in works like the Arthurian legends and troubadour poetry. These stories romanticized the ideals of knighthood, honor, bravery, and courteous behavior, shaping the code of chivalry that became influential in medieval society. Additionally, chivalry was also promoted through tournaments and jousts where knights could showcase their skills and uphold the values of chivalry.
The effect of chivalry on women was largely the result of the code of chivalry, which required a knight to adhere to principles of honor, virtue, and courtly love. The result of this was that the knights, and through them the whole population, began to regard women in a new light, as people who were elevated and worthy of great honor. In other words, it put women in general on a pedestal, to be worshipped by men. The effect of this was not merely honor and politeness, but can be seen in literature and art. The courtly romance, which was first produced at the time when the code of chivalry was dominant, was the first genre of literature intended primarily for a female audience. There are links below.