In the modern age of social networking and on-demand services, Arthurian ideals of chivalry just don’t seem to carry the same weight as they used to. While riding horseback clad in shimmering silver chainmail chasing a fanciful grail may not make much sense, a man should reach back into the sands of time to revitalize some of the King’s forgotten principles and evolve them to fit today’s iPhone-wielding, status-updating male species. Below are four tips to help the modern man bring honor to himself and rekindle the extinguished flames of Arthurian Romance.
Dress appropriately and with respect for you and those around you.
It is a sight that occurs much too often: the Tapout shirt at an upscale restaurant, or the oversized university sweater proliferating throughout the dance club. Though I am on board for the freedom of expression and similar liberal pursuits, there are times when a man needs to conform to social norms and dress appropriately. The twenty-first century gentlemen will always keep in mind that it is far better to be overdressed than underdressed – keeping a hint of sophistication and style wherever he may go. So while looking through the assortment of solid colored basketball shorts, pick up a collared shirt that fits; and don’t be afraid to see a tailor (they can work wonders for the price of a blended coffee drink). The Knights of the Round Table would never leave their house in a tall tee and jeans below their knees, so why should you?
Remember that embarrassing picture in your camera? Let’s leave it there.
“Boys will be boys” as the old saying goes. If there was a night of much debauchery and subsequent unplanned photo ops, refrain from showing them to anyone not involved (let alone posting them online). When you ‘tag’ your best friend kneeling over a toilet, think about the child who might Google his name in a decade. It may be funny for the moment, but will cause unbearable humiliation in the future.
Finally, treat EVERYONE with respect!
A current trend in social interaction has led to a stray away from pleasantries and manners. Being a nice guy has become such an obscurity that Arthur would have to hang his head in shame. A modern millennial gentleman will work to correct this scarcity with personal action. Hold that door open for both women and men, even if there is no gratitude. Give meaningful, whole-hearted compliments and always bring a flower on the first date. All of those cliché gestures that only seem present in the movies should be brought to the forefront of your interaction with other people. Humor, especially, with a heavy influence on sarcasm, should be kept in check making sure not to overstep the border into becoming insulting. And it is always a good idea to be weary of the words that come from your mouth.
The idea of chivalry isn’t dead, but it does need a sharp shock to the heart. Conducting oneself like a gentleman will be guaranteed to improve not only your overall social standing, but metamorphose you into a more likeable, approachable individual.
