Cavaliering: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term comes from the Latin 'caballarius,' meaning 'horseman,' reflecting a history of knights and chivalry.
• It evolved in the 16th century to describe royalists during the English Civil War, specifically loyal to King Charles I, who were often seen as carefree in their attitudes.
• Today, the term can imply being dismissive or showing a lack of concern, moving beyond its noble roots.

Cultural References

• In literature, characters described as cavalier often charm others with their laid-back demeanor while neglecting responsibilities.
• Movies and plays might depict cavalier figures as romantic leads who prioritize adventure over seriousness, creating tension with more grounded characters.

Psychology

• The cavalier attitude can be linked to certain personality traits, such as high extroversion or low conscientiousness, which might result in a carefree but potentially reckless lifestyle.
• Research suggests that cavaliering behavior can sometimes indicate underlying issues like fear of commitment or inability to face reality, making such individuals prefer distraction.

Historical Impact

• The cavalier attitude was seen as both noble and problematic during the English Civil War, highlighting the conflict between duty and personal freedom.
• This historical context allowed the term to shift from a specific political alignment to a more general critique of dismissive attitudes towards important matters.

Literature

• Cavalier poetry emerged in the 17th century, characterized by its themes of love and enjoyment of life, often reflecting the carefree spirit of its creators.
• Famous poets like Robert Herrick embody the cavalier spirit in their works, encouraging seizing the moment and living life fully despite societal constraints.