Why was the image of chivalric tradition encouraged in the fifteenth century? How was it spread?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Answers will vary. The image of chivalry was one promoted by the nobility in western Europe for several reasons. It reinforced the idea of noble status derived from military skills, emphasizing an aristocratic knighthood guided by rules of conduct, heroism, piety, and courtly love. King Francis I of France particularly embraced chivalry, but it was also reflected in popular culture through ballads, artwork, and epics. While not a new tradition, per se, it was one that fit the times because of the transitions in technology and warfare over the previous century, which had seen the conscription of commoners into the Hundred Years' War. Partly to justify power but also to uphold social hierarchy, the re-invention of Knights in a heroic tradition became more commonplace in the fifteenth century. A prime example of this is the rise of the Arthurian legends, first in French and later by William Caxton in English. This built off the earlier tradition of pageants and public displays to raise morale and affiliate the image of King with country.