The Ancient Code of Cavalry

Here are some of my favorite rules from the Code:

[INCIPIT]

A Knight is devoted to valor
His heart knows only virtue
His sword defends those in need
His strength sustains the weak
His words speak only the truth
His wrath comes upon the wicked



[CARITAS]



I. Have compassion for all who are weak, helpless or oppressed, and defend them always and everywhere.




II. Always prioritize the needs of others over your own.




III. Be generous and prodigal with everyone. Generosity is also synonymous with nobility.




IV. If someone makes a noble and reasonable request, you cannot refuse to grant it.




V. Never demand any compensation for your help. The best reward for a knight is having accomplished a noble feat.




VI. There is always a brave knight ready to help another brave knight when he sees him in danger, and always a brave man should hate to see a brave man being insulted.




[VERBA]




IV. Don't talk too much. Those who talk too much pronounce words that could come back to them in crazy ways. Talking too much is a sin, says the wise man. For this, noble Knights, I advise against it.




V. Remember that, sometimes, silence is the best answer.




VI. Never lie, and always keep your word. A Knight's word upholds his own honor. Your word must be reliable and safe beyond doubts or uncertainties.




VII. Always let people speak their truth, even the ignorant and the obtuse, for they too have their own stories. Also, don't let yourself be weakened by prejudices and beliefs.




VIII. Ask few questions and listen a lot. If you can, never ask for anything; but if it will be to please some good friend then it is an honor to ask once and even twice, because the first time may not be well understood. But no more than twice.




[ECCLESIA]



I. Have faith in the teachings of the Church and remember the vow made at the endowment ceremony.




II. Defend the Law of God and use it to stop injustices.




III. Be respectful of all religions, and never offend the religious beliefs of others.




[INTEGRITAS]



I. Do not be vain, vanity hides behind virtue and glory. Beware of excessive pride because it is a weakness to which no one is immune.




II. Keep away from evil worldly glory, for great pride inexorably leads to great pains.




III. An envious knight will never get honor, and since he is also an envious man who wants to take advantage of honor, he will be dishonored twice without getting anything. For this reason men of honor hate envious ones and show them no favors.




[PUELLAE]



I. Respect women and always help them when they are suffering.




II. If you care about a lady's heart, try to become her champion and ask for her hand at tournaments by supporting the honor of your lady.




III. Don't deliberately try to flirt with a woman tied to another's love.




IV. Do not bother ladies and damsels, and desist in case your intentions go against their will.




[PUGNA]



I. Hold duels and tournaments to defend your cause, and avenge offenses.




II. Always fight with honor and courage.




III. Never attack an unarmed enemy, and never charge an unhorsed opponent.




IV. Never strike from behind, and avoid tricks.




V. In battle, wait for no one and be the first to give spurs in order to inflict a good blow; but in council, while you are young, beware of giving your opinion before your elders have spoken.




VI. Never abandon a friend or ally who is in trouble.




VII. Never refuse a challenge and do not run away from the enemy. Never refuse a challenge and do not run away from the enemy. He who does not accept a challenge, well he has already lost it; and in the worst way.




IX. If you fight against another Knight, remember that when the opponent is beaten and cannot defend himself or resist and asks for mercy, you must have mercy on him and not kill him.




X. Never torture a beaten opponent.




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Coded by Claudia Barbonetti