Charles Dickens: 'The age of chivalry is past. Bores have succeeded to dragons.'

The age of chivalry is past. Bores have succeeded to dragons.

The quote by Charles Dickens, 'The age of chivalry is past. Bores have succeeded to dragons,' holds a profound meaning and explores the shifts in society's values and heroes. In a straightforward manner, the quote suggests that the noble ideals associated with chivalry, such as honor, bravery, and gallantry, have given way to a new breed of individuals who could be labeled "bores."To better comprehend the significance of this quote, it is necessary to delve into the concept of chivalry. Historically, chivalry was upheld as a code of conduct for knights during the Middle Ages. Knights were expected to defend the weak, uphold justice, and exhibit courtly manners. The age of chivalry was marked by ideals that placed emphasis on valor, honor, and selflessness.However, Dickens points out that the age in which chivalry thrived has come to an end. In its place, he identifies the rise of "bores." These individuals, unlike the mythical dragons that chivalrous knights valiantly faced, do not pose a physical threat. Instead, they represent a metaphorical dullness and monotony that permeates contemporary society.Upon analyzing the quote, it becomes evident that Dickens is making a social commentary on the changing values and ideals of his time. He suggests that modern society no longer values traits associated with chivalry but rather rewards those who possess mundane qualities and are, by extension, uninteresting.To introduce an unexpected philosophical concept to the article, let us explore the idea of the Hero's Journey. Joseph Campbell, a renowned mythologist, proposed a narrative structure known as the monomyth or Hero's Journey. This concept suggests that many tales and stories throughout history follow a pattern where the hero embarks on an adventure, faces trials and tribulations, and eventually returns home transformed and enlightened.By comparing and contrasting the age of chivalry with the Hero's Journey, we can shed light on Dickens' quote from a different perspective. Chivalrous knights of the past, who embodied the Hero's Journey, were celebrated for their bravery and selflessness. They ventured into the unknown, faced metaphorical dragons, and emerged as triumphant figures, embodying the pinnacle of the hero archetype.However, the rise of 'bores' in society presents a stark contrast to this heroic ideal. Bores lack the adventurous spirit and transformational qualities that mark the Hero's Journey. They do not venture into the unknown, nor do they face significant challenges to grow and evolve. Instead, they remain complacent and uneventful, perpetuating a stale and uninteresting existence.This contrast thus highlights a shift in societal values. The age of chivalry was celebrated for its emphasis on honorable questing and personal transformation, while the contemporary era seems to reward conformity and mediocrity. While dragons embodied danger and represented the unknown, bores, in their monotonous existence, fail to inspire or captivate, leaving society devoid of excitement and passion.In conclusion, Charles Dickens' quote, 'The age of chivalry is past. Bores have succeeded to dragons,' offers insightful commentary on the changing values within society. It signifies a shift from the heroic ideals of chivalry to a more monotonous and uninteresting existence. By contrasting the age of chivalry with the Hero's Journey concept, which celebrates personal growth and transformation, we gain a deeper understanding of the quote's philosophical implications. Dickens' observation serves as a reminder to actively seek and celebrate the exceptional, cultivating a society filled with individuals who pursue passion, face challenges, and grow from their experiences.