The Seven Knightly Virtues:

by Scott Farrell
There was no such thing as a “uniform” code of chivalry in the Middle Ages. Many
people — from successful knights to contemplative philosophers — compiled lists
of virtuous qualities, called the “knightly virtues,” which they felt defined chivalry.
No two were exactly the same.

There were, however, several common themes found in these lists of knightly
virtues. By combining these, we have created what we consider to be the seven
knightly virtues of the modern code of chivalry:

• Courage
More than bravado or bluster, today’s knight in shining armor must have
the courage of the heart necessary to undertake tasks which are difficult,
tedious or unglamorous, and to graciously accept the sacrifices involved.

• Justice
A knight in shining armor holds him- or herself to the highest standard of
behavior, and knows that “fudging” on the little rules weakens the fabric of
society for everyone.

• Mercy
Words and attitudes can be painful weapons in the modern world, which is
why a knight in shining armor exercises mercy in his or her dealings with
others, creating a sense of peace and community, rather than engendering
hostility and antagonism.

• Generosity
Sharing what’s valuable in life means not just giving away material goods,
but also time, attention, wisdom and energy — the things that create a
strong, rich and diverse community.

• Faith
In the code of chivalry, “faith” means trust and integrity, and a knight in
shining armor is always faithful to his or her promises, no matter how big or
small they may be.

• Nobility
Although this word is sometimes confused with “entitlement” or
“snobbishness,” in the code of chivalry it conveys the importance of
upholding one’s convictions at all times, especially when no one else is
watching.

• Hope
More than just a safety net in times of tragedy, hope is present every day in
a modern knight’s positive outlook and cheerful demeanor — the shining
armor that shields him or her, and inspires people all around.

Write a one-page (1000 words or less), non-fiction account about an

individual you know personally, or an encounter you witnessed yourself of a
true-life example of a modern day knight. Focus on one of the seven
knightly virtues. This virtue will be the title of your paper. Using sensory
details to explain how your “knight” in shining armor exemplifies this
quality.
 Coat of Arms
Create a motto for yourself. What
statement about integrity, virtue or
strength do you want to be reminded of
when you look in the mirror each
morning? What words do you want to
come to the minds of your friends or
children when they think of you? Which of
the Seven Knightly Virtues would you
encapsulate in your own motto?
Place your motto at the top of the shield,
and your name (remember, this is YOUR
motto, not your family’s motto!) at the
bottom. You will pick elements of your
motto to illustrate in your shield.

Modern Day Knight Essay

Who in your life is a modern day
knight? Write about someone you
know personally, and use sensory
details to describe why this person
is a “knight.” The title for the
essay should be one of the Seven
Knightly Virtues: Courage,
Justice, Mercy, Generosity,
Faith, Nobility and Hope.

Shield Assignment
It is the Middle Ages and you are at war with your neighbor.
The metal armor is in place, the horses are ready to
charge and you suddenly realize it is impossible to
distinguish your allies from your enemies. DO you yell at
your supposed opponent to hear his response? Do you
communicate in secret hand gestures?

Rather than have his subjects guess and risk being mortally
wounded by a brother, England’s King Richard III instituted a
system to identify each family of title and wealth in the
kingdom. He established the College of Arms, which still
exists today. The College of Arms set about creating an
insignia resembling actual shields whose symbols would
reflect the lives and property of titled landowners. Having
your own Coat of Arms was an extreme honor at this time.

It is now time for you to create your own Coat of Arms.

Remember that the colors you use on

your shield should mean something about
you. Here is a helpful guide.

Color Symbolism
Yellow/Gold- Generosity
White/Silver- Peace and sincerity
Black- Constancy, sometimes grief or grieving
Blue- Loyalty or truth
Red- Military fortitude or someone who
is amiable
Green- Hope, joy, loyalty in love
Purple- Royalty, Majesty, justice, independence
Brown/Tan Worthy ambition
Orange- Not hasty in battle, and yet a victor