In medieval times, knights were expect to have combat skills and strength, but along with this, they were expected to hold to a special code of principles. It was the honor code of the knight. Chivalry originally referred to an aristocratic warrior code involving individual training and service to others. Over time it has come to refer to the knightly traditions of bravery and honor. The code was first documented in a song called "The song of Roland." It said:
- To fear God and maintain His Church
- To serve the liege lord in valour and faith
- To protect the weak and defenceless
- To give succour to widows and orphans
- To refrain from the wanton giving of offence
- To live by honour and for glory
- To despise pecuniary reward
- To fight for the welfare of all
- To obey those placed in authority
- To guard the honour of fellow knights
- To eschew unfairness, meanness and deceit
- To keep faith
- At all times to speak the truth
- To persevere to the end in any enterprise begun
- To respect the honour of women
- Never to refuse a challenge from an equal
- Never to turn the back upon a foe
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