The unwritten code that a medieval knight was to follow was known as chivalry. This behavior was based on Christian values and courtly love. However, this system didn't protect everyone as it may lead one to believe.
             Christian influence is evident in chivalry by examining that which was glorified within the code. Loyalty, kindness, politeness, and respect was the behavior expected from a knight. Most importantly to the knight, however, was faith in God. It was thought that through strong belief in God, they would be able to "overcome the evil tidings of the world" (Wyrme, Internet). Loyalty was demanded from both God and the knight's feudal lord. The knight was to be kind to all; peasants, ladies, lords etc (Encarta). This was supposed to mean that he also protected the innocent and the weak. Yet still the knights used their position to further themselves. One way could include demanding ransom for a captured enemy or horse. Politeness was to be acted unto all, but actually was generally reserved for ladies of the court and nobility. Respect goes along with politeness; it was ideally for everyone, but it stayed regularly with nobles and ones enemies. One knight was never to attack another !
             knight that was unarmed (World History page 251-252). An act like this was considered dishonorable. Thus, the religious influences are apparent upon comparison of the values of chivalry and relating them to those also in the church.
             Another significant influence upon the ideals of chivalry was courtly love. This was basically sanctioned adultery. Since marriages were often just business contracts, it was not uncommon for a lady of nobility to have an anonymous lover. A knight would write her poetry, do good deeds in her name, and if needed, defend the name and honor of this lady. Once the knight made his love known to her, and if she shared it, they would go on with complete secrecy. In this way the contr
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