Scholars explore violence in Middle Ages

But chivalry is not a simple notion of right and wrong, said Richard Kaeuper, professor of history. While chivalry did impose modes of conduct that bred honor and valor, it also legitimized violence.

"Chivalry is both part of the solution and part of the problem of order," Kaeuper said. "It's not simply an internalization of restraints, but a complicit code of violence, with relationships to the force of religion and the emerging force of royalty and the state."

Kaeuper will host a conference here on "Violence in Medieval Society" May 1-3. A dozen scholars from the United States, England, Scotland, and Ireland will explore the topic from a variety of viewpoints and perspectives.

The world of the Middle Ages was a dynamic time of evolving states and kingdoms, the growth of university education, the development of administration and law, and the growth of the medieval Catholic Church. Such a dynamic society demanded a system of order, and though chivalry established order, it also used violence to deal with the problem of violence.

"Chivalry valorizes violence," Kaeuper said. "We tend not to see it because we see what we like, such as the advent of fine manners. But it was really about 'cutting and thrusting.'"

Literature of the time shows a bloodthirsty relish for smiting enemies--and equally bloody descriptions of the action. It also reveals a religious connection, as God is credited with giving strength in fighting.

It adds up to a picture of a society that legitimized violence in certain circumstances, and those could be in domestic, marital, political, or aristocratic situations, against women or against children.

"Violence has received insufficient attention in developing medieval society," Kaeuper said.

Presenters at the conference will address war, politics and violence; violence and the law; courtly society and violence; and domestic and private violence.

For more information, call x5-2052.