-
Essay / The representation of the code of chivalry in “The Knight of the Cart”
There are many heroes of modern times. Those we consider strong and courageous. Those who protect us. However, where do these qualities aspire from? How to judge if someone is noble. If anyone deserves to be honored. Many attributes contribute to this definition of what we call a hero, a knight who shines in armor. Attributes that determine whether a knight will be a great knight or whether he will be dishonored. A knighthood is an award bestowed by the king. Which today amounts to different commands within our armed forces. These essential characteristics that we consider chivalrous are found throughout medieval Arthurian history and literature and are represented in Lancelot: The Knight in the Cart by Chrétien de Troyes. The novels of Chrétien de Troyes are among the best-known and most widely used sources of medieval history and literature today and help us understand the meaning of what it means to be a knight. Chrétien is also the first to establish a knight not only as a brave and strong fighter, but also as a lover who will do anything for love. Elements of loyalty, nobility, courage, honor, faith and reason, as well as pure love and genuine chivalry, contribute to shaping an admirable knight. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Chivalry was an important aspect in the Middle Ages and was described in many prose-style books. Chivalry was “a combination of qualities expected of a knight such as courage, honor, courtesy and justice.” Knights had a code that they had to follow. This required them to be loyal not only to each other but to others, to work hard, and to know the code of honor. Knights generally wore better than average clothing, riding their horses wearing golden bridles and saddles. Often riding the best horses. They were considered elite soldiers in battles and crusades, expected to behave honorably and act as officers of the local lord's court or that of the queen. Knights are skilled in arms, chivalry, and courtly love. While there are many attributes of a good knight, certain traits may cause one to question a knight's worthiness within the code of chivalry. A knight cannot lack the ability to reason his decisions and must be ready to act in an instant. When it comes to questioning loyalty and love, a knight must be able to maintain a certain balance. Knights must be able to reason this balance and remain loyal to the people and the king. The Knight of the Cart, however, transfers his honor and loyalty to the king in pursuit of chivalric quests in order to be with Guinevere, the king's wife. Chrétien reluctantly writes that this act was indeed very honorable although it went against the king. Which is far from honorable but rather chivalrous. When it comes to honor and courage, there should be no need to second-guess yourself. Chrétien states that "in this case, the greatest coward in the world would pass by", meaning that no knight should be afraid to take action when and where needed and that even the weakest of knights would do what is right for his honor and protection. people. If you hesitate for even a few moments, you could die. Hesitation is a major fault that.”