Chivalry seems to be a thing of the past in modern times. In fact, many students at Scituate High School do not know what chivalry means. Chivalry could refer to the medieval period, when knights are expected to act with honor and grace. In modern times, it refers to a man who behaves courteously towards a woman. These chivalrous manners and respect that gentlemen should use towards women seem to have died out as much as other customs of the medieval period.

    Senior Tracey Duffey thinks that chivalry “is ruined by the time and the media. It’s normal now to forget all about romance.” Stemming from shows like Jersey Shore and 16 and Pregnant, relationships are no longer viewed as romantic or chivalrous. With men picking up girls and only romancing them for one night, is it time to accept that the chivalry of once upon a time is officially dead?

    Senior Ian Wilder thinks that chivalry has ended because “girls don’t expect it. Some guys just don’t care.” Should girls start to demand that their boyfriends be more chivalrous? It is unhealthy to try to change your partner, so if chivalry is not there, should girls accept it or move on?

    Chivalry can be as simple as buying your date dinner, but then is it only expected for men to do the purchasing? Can women be chivalrous too? Some people think that only men should buy dinner, while others believe that women should not be afraid to pick up their end of the bargain and throw down for a meal. Wilder said, “I know I always do, but in extreme situations, like if the guy has no money, then the girl should.”

    Now that women are usually employed, and sometimes even more successful than their dates, women paying for dinner on occasion should not be out of the question. Duffey said, “I would feel bad if my date always bought dinner. On special occasions maybe they can, but on your normal Friday night, the couple should just split the check.”

    There are simple acts of chivalry that do not take a lot of work and can really pay off in the long run. What ever happened to men buying women presents as a surprise and the romance that kept relationships alive? Flowers could be purchased more than on an Anniversary, Valentine’s Day or a pathetic apology. Duffey thinks that chivalry is important “once in a while because it lets you know that your boyfriend still cares and can make you feel special.”

    If it’s cold out, the man could offer his jacket while his date is shivering next to him. The woman should always walk in front instead of trailing behind, unless the man feels like holding hands, which he can get bonus points for. What a long way it would go if men walked their date to the door, and more importantly, open the door for them.

    Small gestures go a long way because chivalry really is not that difficult; it just takes a little compassion. The most important chivalrous act…when women are telling a man their woes and troubles, even if you don’t, at least act like you care. Is that so hard?