Essential question: Why was chivalry important in mideival society? Knights and Chivalry Essential question: Why was chivalry important in mideival society?

Knights and Vassals In Medieval society, vassals swore an oath of loyalty to lords and fought battles for them in exchange for having their needs met.  Warriors who fought as heavily armored cavalry were called knights.  They had great social prestige and formed the backbone of European class system because of their mobility. 

Jousting  When there was no war to fight in, knights would compete in tournaments hosted by various lords.  Tournaments helped knights improve their battle skills as well as earn money.  They hand many events including sword, melee, and joust. 

Code of Chivalry In the 11th century the Catholic Church helped develop the idea of chivalry, an idea of civilized behavior.  Chivalry is a code of conduct that required knights to be brave, loyal, and true to their word. It also required them to protect the weak including church men, women, peasants, and even captives. 

Do you think there are any modern equivalents to the Code of Chivalry?

Feudal Japan Between 1000 and 1200 Japan was feudal as well. Their elite warriors were called Samurai. They lived by a code like the code of chivalry called the Bushido code, which required absolute courage and loyalty. 

Comparison Europe Shared Japan Look at your notes on the culture in feudal Europe and feudal Japan, then complete this comparison (use pg. 262 to help if needed): Europe Shared Japan