Chivalry is a code of conduct that originated in medieval Europe between 1170 and 1220, primarily associated with knights and the institution of knighthood. It combined military bravery, knightly piety, and courtly manners to establish ideals of honor, nobility, and moral behavior

. The term "chivalry" derives from the Old French chevalerie , meaning "horse soldiery," originally referring to mounted knights but later evolving into a broader moral and social code. This code emphasized virtues such as courage, honor, loyalty, generosity, and protecting the weak

. Chivalry encompassed three main duties:

• Duties to countrymen and fellow Christians, including mercy, fairness, and willingness to sacrifice oneself for others.
• Duties to God, such as faithfulness, protecting the innocent, and championing good over evil.
• Duties to women, often expressed as courtly love, involving gentleness, respect, and service to a lady

In practice, chivalry meant knights were expected to be brave in battle, loyal to their lord, respectful and courteous to women, and generous to those in need. It also included ethical behavior in combat, like not attacking a disarmed enemy or harming horses unnecessarily

. Over time, the concept of chivalry broadened beyond knights to mean courteous, honorable, and kind behavior, especially by men toward women, such as holding doors or offering protection

. In summary, chivalry is both a historical knightly code of conduct emphasizing honor, bravery, and service, and a modern ideal of courteous and respectful behavior.