Knights
were expected to live up to the ideals of the Code of
Chivalry. The code held that a true Knight was
a champion of women, a protector of the innocent and the
weak and a defender of the faith. He should give alms to the
poor. He should conduct himself at all times with courtoisie
(courtesy) which means according to the dictates of the Courtly
Manners of the age.
As
a lord, he should be stern but just and fair in his
dealings with his sworn vassals and lesser subjects. To
loyal vassals, he gives largesse openly, freely and generously,
rewarding and honouring them, as they deserve. In battle,
he should be steadfast and fearless, an example to all men.
In victory, he should be magnanimous and courteous to
defeated enemies he has taken captive and holds for ransom.
A true Knight will always choose the path of truth and right
and justice.
This
was the ideal and many tried to attain it. Alas, many
did not. History and legends are filled with tales of
outlaw knights and robber barons, of deeds of treachery and
the basest dishonour, of oaths broken, atrocities committed
and false betrayals.
How
a character chooses to serve out his Knighthood is
up to the player, of course. He might well prefer to play
the scoundrel knight. Yet he might well remember that true
Knights take their honour seriously and defend it eagerly
with lance and sword and mace.
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