Chivalry isn't quite so irrational as many here seem to think. The practice of Chivalry originated during a time when females could be neither scholars nor warriors, because of this they were put on a pedestal for their own protection.
In WoT, men (at least the Two Rivers variety) believe it's their job to protect women since they are physically stronger and more ideally suited for combat. They also believe themselves guardians against those men who don't follow the system and are likely to take advantage. Let's face it, some strong women may not appreciate protection, but the best guard against an underhanded male scheme is a man, since many of us think alike. Women also protect men in a similar way, men simply take the role much more seriously due to testosterone and other factors.
Then, of course, there is Rand. Rand sees a number of women die as a direct result of his actions, and for psychological reasons he largely takes the blame on himself. Not a healthy choice, especially since many of the women were warriors ready to lay their lives down for him in just such a way as they did. Is this sexism? I don't think so, Rand knows exactly how trained and capable the maidens are, he just can't take having a woman die for him.
Gritting my teeth against Rand being so sexist
in Wheel of Time Books
Posted
Chivalry isn't quite so irrational as many here seem to think. The practice of Chivalry originated during a time when females could be neither scholars nor warriors, because of this they were put on a pedestal for their own protection.
In WoT, men (at least the Two Rivers variety) believe it's their job to protect women since they are physically stronger and more ideally suited for combat. They also believe themselves guardians against those men who don't follow the system and are likely to take advantage. Let's face it, some strong women may not appreciate protection, but the best guard against an underhanded male scheme is a man, since many of us think alike. Women also protect men in a similar way, men simply take the role much more seriously due to testosterone and other factors.
Then, of course, there is Rand. Rand sees a number of women die as a direct result of his actions, and for psychological reasons he largely takes the blame on himself. Not a healthy choice, especially since many of the women were warriors ready to lay their lives down for him in just such a way as they did. Is this sexism? I don't think so, Rand knows exactly how trained and capable the maidens are, he just can't take having a woman die for him.