IndexArnold's Friend's ChivalryWhat is Chivalry?The Idea of Chivalry and Arnold's FriendHonestyProtectionConclusionArnold's Friend's ChivalryMeg Ryan, speaking about one of his films, stated: “I heard that chivalry was dead, but I think he just got a bad flu” (2017). Ryan is saying that the ideas of chivalry are still applicable and occur, however they are afflicted. society's idea of chivalrous behavior and when applied has certainly moved from the original concept. The clearest example of this can be seen in Joyce Carol Oates' short story "Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?" reflects and manipulates chivalric concepts, showing how impure these intentions can be while being presented as honorable Say no to plagiarism Get a custom essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay What is Chivalry? In the Middle Ages, chivalry referred to the upright behavior of knights; such as honesty, courage, courtesy and respect. Chivalry was not necessarily simply an act of men towards women. Today the definition has shifted more towards a set of behaviors that men exhibit to obtain the favor of women; however, the core behaviors remain the same (Chivalry Today 2017). In essence, chivalry refers to actions and behaviors aimed at protecting and/or elevating women. For example, a man who acts chivalrously may give up his seat to a female passenger on a train to prevent her from standing on a long journey. In this short story, the main character Connie is described as a young, pretty and vain teenager. lass. She doesn't get along with her mother and insinuates that her mother is jealous of her beauty. She is also not very fond of her sister because she is older and gets more approval from her mother; however, there is no conflict in the story between the two sisters. Connie feels they must be two different people; the identity he presents at home and the one he presents while out with his friends. During the time she is out with her friend, she meets some guys at a local drive-in; and at one point attracts the attention of Arnold Friend. A few days later, when her family leaves for a barbecue, Connie decides to stay home instead. While his family is gone, Arnold Friend and his friend Ellie arrive at Connie's house; and tries to convince her to come with him. Arnold expresses notions of chivalry, but makes it clear that his intent is not as honorable as his words suggest. Although she refuses to obey Friend, after he threatens her family, she gives in. The final feeling of the story is that Connie leaves her home to go with Friend, knowing that unpleasant events are awaiting her. The Idea of Chivalry and Arnold FriendWhile Arnold Friend is talking to Connie, he introduces himself as a teenager like her; however, Connie notices that he and Ellie both look much older. The presentation of himself through fashion and his vehicle are done in part to make Connie feel more comfortable and safe. His verbal presentation uses common popular phrases and tries to show commonalities. For example, he tells her that he knows everything and everyone, such as her friends and where her family is (Oats pp. 33-34, 1993). This is all done to present yourself as someone who can be trusted. Arnold also uses flattery to try to force Connie to become an accomplice. He tells her how beautiful she is and how he prefers women with her figure. Flattery is often confused with chivalry, but this is not necessarily true. Cavalry is supposed.
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