So much can be learned from literature. From its themes and allegories to its historical contexts, new words, and ability to introduce new ideas, scenarios, emotions, moral conundrums, and so much more literature is essential to developing a sense of where you stand in the world. When it comes to our children, it is vital to choose literature that expands their minds and worlds, while also shaping their characters, hearts, and souls. These famous men from literature are the perfect examples of what it means to be a gentleman.

Who Needs to Know Gentlemen

It is vitally important that boys know gentlemen. The code by which gentlemen live is grounded in a solid foundation of morals. Gentleness and strength, wisdom and knowledge, kindness, service, devotion, protection, and sacrifice all mark the gentlemen. He treats everyone with dignity and does what is right regardless of the criticism he receives. Gentlemen are guided by principles and their God.

As much as boys need to see this character played out in front of them, girls, too, need to see what makes a true gentleman because he will model how she should be treated by other men. She will develop a standard and expectation for each man she lets into her life. And men, in exchange, will aspire to this standard creating a collaboration between the sexes that rebuilds a respectful, peaceful, and moral society.

5 Literary Characters Who Are the Perfect Gentlemen

The beauty of these characters lies in their absolute devotion to standards; the good, true, and beautiful. They strive, in everything, to do what is right, knowing that every small slip of their own standards damages the world their love. They are staunchly against evil and aim to serve what is higher and greater than themselves.

Sherlock Holmes

Though often branded in modern adaptations as an aloof, disruptive, and rude “high-functioning sociopath”, Sherlock Holmes is, truly, the original gentleman. A product of the Victorian era, Sherlock embraces his job as protector of the world, using his talents to serve justice, save lives, and set troubled minds at ease.

Hercule Poirot

Another product of days gone by, Hercule is another master of his skills, manners, and principles. He sees the world in turmoil and does what he can to set it right. He dresses impeccably, holds others to high standards of behavior, and seeks truth.

Mr. Knightley

It is honestly impossible to choose a Jane Austen hero because they are all, in their own ways, fantastic role models. But we’ve settled on Mr. Knightley from Jane Austen’s Emma. A true friend who desires the best of Emma, Mr. Knightley treats everyone with dignity, cares for those in need, saves people from embarrassment, offers sound advice, and knows the value of a well-educated mind and properly utilized wit. 

Samwise Gamgee

A true hero of The Lord of the Rings trilogy, Samwise is not only a friend and guardian, he is a kind, gentle soul and the most stalwart example of bravery. All the members of the Fellowship of the Ring have their virtues, but Samwise’s devotion sets him apart. His love of beauty and selflessness are paired with hard work and a desire to do what is right at all costs.

James Harriot

The real-life man, and main character of his own novels, All Creatures Great and Small, James Harriot is a slightly more modern gentleman who stands strong in his principles, fiercely loves his wife, and cares deeply for the creatures God has placed in our hands. A veterinarian in Mid-Century England, Harriot knows the value of hard work as well as the beauty of a home and people who are willing to assist you through your best and worst days.

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This is not an exhaustive list and these gentlemen definitely have their faults, but their struggle to fight for a better world despite the failings of their humanity is exactly why we should look up to them and teach our children to do the same. View the full list here.