A Code of Chivalry
Ref:
Modern, based on the "Old Code" Brian
R. Price April, 1997
Prowess:
To seek excellence in all endeavors expected of a knight, martial and
otherwise, seeking strength to be used in the service of justice, rather
than in personal aggrandizement.
Justice:
Seek always the path of 'right', unencumbered by bias or personal
interest. Recognize that the sword of justice can be a terrible thing,
so it must be tempered by humanity and mercy. If the 'right' you see
rings agrees with others, and you seek it out without bending to the
temptation for expediency, then you will earn renown beyond measure.
Loyalty:
Be known for unwavering commitment to the people and ideals you choose
to live by. There are many places where compromise is expected; loyalty
is not amongst them.
Defense:
The ideal knight was sworn by oath to defend his liege lord and those
who depended upon him. Seek always to defend your nation, your family,
and those to whom you believe worthy of loyalty.
Courage:
Being a knight often means choosing the more difficult path, the
personally expensive one. Be prepared to make personal sacrifices in
service of the precepts and people you value. At the same time, a knight
should seek wisdom to see that stupidity and courage are cousins.
Courage also means taking the side of truth in all matters, rather than
seeking the expedient lie. Seek the truth whenever possible, but
remember to temper justice with mercy, or the pure truth can bring
grief.
Faith:
A knight must have faith in his beliefs, for faith roots him and gives
hope against the despair that human failings create.
Humility:
Value first the contributions of others; do not boast of your own
accomplishments, let others do this for you. Tell the deeds of others
before your own, according them the renown rightfully earned through
virtuous deeds. In this way the office of knighthood is well done and
glorified, helping not only the gentle spoken of but also all who call
themselves knights.
Largesse:
Be generous in so far as your resources allow; largesse used in this way
counters gluttony. It also makes the path of mercy easier to discern
when a difficult decision of justice is required.
Nobility:
Seek great stature of character by holding to the virtues and duties of
a knight, realizing that though the ideals cannot be reached, the
quality of striving towards them ennobles the spirit, growing the
character from dust towards the heavens. Nobility also has the tendency
to influence others, offering a compelling example of what can be done
in the service of rightness.
Franchise:
Seek to emulate everything I have spoken of as sincerely as possible,
not for the reason of personal gain but because it is right. Do not
restrict your exploration to a small world, but seek to infuse every
aspect of your life with these qualities. Should you succeed in even a
tiny measure then you will be well remembered for your quality and
virtue.
