Order of Chivalry
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| The regalia of the Chivalry includes the white belt and an unadorned chain. | |
| Award Level | Peerage Order |
|---|---|
| Award Type | Martial |
| Chartered On | Pre-SCA; defined in Corpora |
| Reign | Various |
| White Stag | White Stag Principal Herald |
| Number of Recipients | |
| Precedence | Equal to other Peerage Orders |
| Entitles Use of | Titles: Sir, Dame, Master, Mistress |
Overview
The Order of the Chivalry is one of the Peerage Orders of the Society for Creative Anachronism and consists of two equal branches: the Knights and the Masters of Arms. Members of the Chivalry are recognized for their exceptional prowess with the weapons of tournament combat, as well as for their dedication to courtesy, honor, and chivalric virtue both on and off the field.
The Order is defined in SCA Corpora, which establishes the structure, expectations, and responsibilities of the Chivalry across all kingdoms. Individuals elevated to this Peerage are considered the equals of their prospective peers in skill at arms.
Structure of the Order
Knights
Knights swear fealty to the Crown during the knighting ceremony. Their reserved regalia includes:
A white belt
An unadorned chain (any color, though typically gold), symbolizing sworn fealty
Knights are traditionally addressed as “Sir” (name). Some women Knights prefer the form “Dame” (name).
Masters of Arms
Masters of Arms are equal in rank and dignity to Knights but do not swear mandatory fealty. They may choose to swear fealty, but it is not required. Their regalia traditionally includes:
A white baldric
Masters of Arms are addressed as “Master” or “Mistress” (name).
Duties of the Chivalry
As outlined in SCA Corpora, members of the Chivalry are charged with the following responsibilities:
To set an example of courtesy and chivalrous conduct on and off the field of honor.
To respect the Crown and uphold the laws of the kingdom and Corpora.
To enrich the kingdom by sharing their knowledge and skill in the martial arts.
To support and uphold the Crown of their kingdom.
To enhance the renown and defend the honor of their chosen Lady or Lord.
To advise the Crown on the advancement of candidates for the Order.
To bestow the Accolade of Knighthood upon a new Knight, by right of their station.
Ceremony and Fealty
During the elevation ceremony, a candidate for Knighthood must swear fealty to the Crown; this is the defining distinction between a Knight and a Master of Arms. Both branches of the Order are expected to embody the ideals of chivalry, prowess, honor, and courtesy. During their elevation ceremony, a new member of the order may also elect to participate in The Buffet. This often comes at the end of the elevation ceremony and involves the new member being struck across the face by the Queen or King. The intent is for The Buffet to be the last blow they ever take unanswered.
In the Outlands
The newest member of the Order of Chivalry in the Outlands is granted the privilege of wearing the Knights' Chain and is invited to create and add a link to the chain. The newest Knight is often referred to as the "Baby Knight."