KNIGHTLY ETHOS: INTEGRITY IN TIMES OF TRIAL

Abstract

The article explores the relevance of the chivalric ethos of medieval Europe for contemporary Ukrainian society, which faces numerous challenges in the context of the Russian-Ukrainian war. In this context, the chivalric ethos, reflected in medieval chronicles, legal codes, and literature, serves as a source of moral guidance and principles. The article notes that chivalric culture was deeply rooted in medieval Europe, and its influence was felt even after the decline of knighthood as a social institution. Chivalric ideals found new forms of expression in the culture, literature, philosophy, and professional ethics of Western Europe. The principles of the chivalric ethos, such as honor, loyalty, courage, and the protection of the weak, became the foundation for many modern moral and ethical norms. In the contemporary world, these ideals find their place in international humanitarian law, which restricts the means of warfare and protects the rights of civilians and prisoners of war. Special emphasis is placed on the necessity of adhering to international humanitarian law as a crucial element in preserving humanity and justice even in the most difficult situations.