Chivalry is known as a lost art in today’s society. Some would argue that women’s liberation has caused the act to die and become useless, while others would point out that men have simply stopped respecting women. There is a fine line between being a gentlemen, and treating a woman like she cannot take care of herself. The laws that governed men thousands of years ago do not necessarily translate well into today’s society. While there are still a few that do need to be followed, like never laying a hand on a woman in anger, others do not bode well with today’s women.  

For example, one of the most common acts of chivalry is opening doors and pulling out chairs for a woman. While this can be endearing and cute, after a while it just makes a woman feel like she is incapable of doing it herself in the mans eyes. Every woman would like to receive flowers and a well thought out card now and then, but it seems that a man only sends them now if it is a holiday or he has made a mistake. This says that a woman will instantly forgive him because she has been given compensation, and that she doesn’t deserve gifts any time of the year except Valentines Day.  

One of the biggest offenders for poking at women’s equality, is testosterone- fueled jealousy. It is true that no one, man or woman, likes to see someone flirting with their partner. There is no denying that, but when a man feels the need to cause a scene because of a harmless pick up line, it quickly becomes an issue. While the man may think that he is defending the woman’s virtue, she is more than capable of doing that herself. Granted, if someone becomes aggressive and it is obvious that she is out of her depth, then an intervention may be needed. Sometimes help is not wanted, and to do so may cause trouble at home.  

There is a fine line between chivalry and disrespect. Women are no longer damsels in distress, but do appreciate some extra attention now and then. One thing that has, and always will, remain the same is that women like to be treated equally. Women want to know that they are not only loved, but respected for everything that they bring into their daily lives. Perhaps the art of chivalry could be resurrected, with a few minor moderations, and make many men and women kinder and happier world wide.