Is chivalry dead?

Answer 1

chivalry is not dead, but sadly it is being lost because of a few reasons.

1: you're right, some young people dont care.

2:since the 60's some women take offence to a man opening a door for them, etc. so in that light, how are young men supposed to know how to act?

Answer 2

No, it's not dead but it is badly injured. It was taken down a back alley and given a severe beating by the likes of Germaine Greer, Julie Birchill and Jo Brand. As others have stated above, the rise of feminism led to what was previously thought as chivalrous behaviour being reclassified as 'patronising' (opening doors, carrying bags etc.) and this led on to, and 'justified', young feminists being downright rude to men who were chivalrous. Added to that when a man acts chivalrously now young women are more likely to think 'more fool him' and simply take advantage. It's also part of the process where, as has become increasingly clear, it's popular and widely acceptable for women to be openly derogatory about men. Look at the way men are portrayed in adverts aimed at women - generally stupid and incompetant. If women, black people, Jews or any other group were portrayed in that way there would be an outcry. Chivalry is now often seen as a form of weakness and of an outdated mentality. Younger women have rejected their traditional role and also men's traditional role and the behaviour that went with it. So it's not dead, just very unfashionable.

Answer 3

Well, yes and no... the concept of chivalry was originally a way knights were supposed to conduct themselves in battle, and, later, at home as well. One was supposed to be honest, loyal, generous, courteous, exhibit prowess and seek fame.
The link below includes a funny story as to how it might be followed. This form of chivalry, however, I would say is certainly dead.

Nowadays, chivalry usually refers to the way men treat women. Usually it's commited with little favors, like opening doors for her and making other petty sacrifices. I'd say it's not dead, but it's not in much fashion anymore. In the 1970s, after the Women's Rights movement, women started considering it somewhat offensive when men would do these things. My dad was telling me just the other day how in the 70s he would open door for women just to be obnoxious because they all hated it.
So not dead, but ill for certain; and it is because women wanted it that way.

Answer 4

Depends on the people you meet, I know a lot of Puerto Rican, Spanish and Italian people who treat me like a princess, open doors, kiss me on the hand ect.... and English men do too but not so much , maybe it is because certain cultures teach people to be respectful and have chivalry. I know many men whom are scared to show chivalry in case the women bites their head off, to me there is nothing as romantic and respectful as being as show chivalry.

Answer 5

I do hope not. I know some women want to be treated as 'equals' in every way, but I for one love to have doors opened, seats given up, hats doffed etc. My father was of the generation where this was automatic, and he would always take the outside of the pavement (sidewalk) when we walked together, stand if a lady entered the room, take off his hat indoors and so on. I remember the days when gentlemen wouldn't swear in the presence of a lady too - now the girls seem to compete with the boys in swearing, drinking and fighting - I don't see that as progress!

Answer 6

Sadly it would seem so! But as a woman, I realise that there is an argument for men feeling that as we enjoy an equality in many aspects of life, we should not expect to be treated with chivalry. However, there is no excuse for lack of manners and courtesy, and I personally believe that a real man should respect our femininity, and treat us accordingly. That in turn earns them respect-and everyone would be happy!

Answer 7

I always open doors for ladies, allow them to go first on the lift, give my seat to any lady I think needs it more than me (or even other lads, nowadays is not uncommon to see a dady in the tube with a child).

But I have been told by some women that find this antiquated, which puts a lot of guys with good intentions off.

So in synthesis, yes, I think so. It has been murdered, sadly.

Answer 8

"The motto of chivalry is also the motto of wisdom; to serve all, but love only one."

If by chivalry, you mean being kind to others, then no, it's not dead, especially if we make the decision to do something good every day.

If it is dead, then we only have oursevles to blame........

Answer 9

A few days ago I would have said yes but when I was leaving a restaurant the other day 2 young skater dudes held the doors open for me and let me through.

Naturally I thanked them and bless them they seemed dead chuffed with themselves!

Answer 10

chivalry is a live and well but it is only noticed by good kind friendly people not self centred spoiled girls and boys

you noticed any chivalry recently?