Chivalry is a code of honorable behavior that originally guided medieval knights in Europe. Knights were expected to be brave in battle, protect those who couldn't defend themselves, show respect and courtesy to others, and keep their word no matter what. A knight practicing chivalry would defend a village from raiders, treat prisoners fairly, and never break a promise.

The word comes from the French word for horseman, because knights fought on horseback and belonged to the upper class of medieval society. Training to become a knight began in childhood and took years of practice with weapons, horses, and learning the proper way to behave.

Today, chivalry means treating others with courtesy and respect, especially by helping people who need it. When someone holds a door open for a person carrying heavy bags, offers their seat to someone who looks tired, or stands up for a classmate being picked on, that's modern chivalry in action.

The phrase “chivalry is dead” means people aren't as courteous as they used to be, though plenty of people still practice these values every day. True chivalry isn't about grand gestures: it's about noticing when someone needs help and choosing to act with kindness and honor.