Saladin: The model of chivalry
By: Vivek Lasi
To: Mr. Milkovich
Word Count: 1297 words
Ancient History ISU ESSAY – Saladin Model of Chivalry
By: Vivek Lasi
Ṣalāḥ ad-Dīn Yūsuf ibn Ayyūb known as Saladin is the model of western chivalry even today. He is admired by both the Christians and Muslims and known for defeating the third crusaders. With chivalrous behaviour, anyone can accomplish anything like Saladin. Through being chivalrous, Saladin created friendships with both the Christians and Muslims which had been existent for a long period of time. Although there are many Chivalrous people in history, Saladin is the model of Chivalry because Saladin shows many of the chivalrous traits including Justice & mercy which gained him the respect of his enemies.
He was the first Sultan of Egypt and Syria and was known for conquering Jerusalem for the Muslims and his chivalrous behaviour. He was born in Tikrite and spent most of his youth in Damascus with his uncle Shirkuh. Saladin’s first act of chivalry was shown at an early age of 26. While with his uncle Shirkuh he fought the king of Jerusalem and the crusaders for Egypt1. Not only, did he leave a good impression from this battle, at the same time he also was able to boost the Egyptian economy and build many Muslim schools around Egypt. His desire to provide education to others reveals his character. As he was a champion of knowledge and generosity.
The western world knows what is Chivalry thanks to Saladin. Chivalrous behaviour is thought to be derived from knights which includes traits such as honor, courage, courtesy, justice, mercy, and helping the weak. Saladin possesses almost all of these traits which is why he is the model of Chivalry. This behaviour is not seen enough in the modern world. Modern chivalrous behaviour is usually seen when men try to be gentlemen to women. Saladin possess both modern and traditional chivalrous traits which is one of the
References: Albert, et al. “Chivalry IV - - Saladin”. Military thoughts. Nov 17 2006. April 28 2014. Web. Alchin, Linda. “Saladin”. Lords and Ladies. July 6 2012. April 28 2014. Web. Burhan, Faysal. “Saladin: A Benevolent Man, Respected by both Muslims and Christians”. Islamic Study. April 28 2014. Web. Go Jerusalem. “Saladin: an icon of chivalry”. Go Jerusalem. 2008. April 28 2014. Web.