Of Chivalry and Sexism

Recently I asked a friend of mine why she disliked chivalry so much she gave several responses to which this blog will make an attempt at rebutting. The first argument was that chivalry = being sexist. Before we begin with this one let's define our terms. Chivalry: marked by honor, generosity and courtesy; marked by gracious courtesy and high minded consideration especially to women. Sexism: predjudice or discrimination based on sex, especially discrimination against women; behaviour conditions or attitudes that foster sterotypes of social roles based on sex. Already I'm seeing a difference. A man who exhibits chivalry is marked by honor, generosity and courtesy. None of the characteristics resemble a sexist. The aim of chivalry is to show a woman the honor and glory she deserves. Is it really so bad for women to be treated as though they were something special?
Another argument against chivalry is that it puts a man in a position of power. I would argue that it's not so much power as worship. Perhaps that is too great a term, let's replace it with honor. Treating women like China plates is simply showing them the honor they deserve. China plates are special, they are not like your every day plates. In the same fashion, women are special, they are not, nor can they ever be just like men. Thus, chivalry does not put a man in power, rather it puts the man in a position of admitting that women are in fact superior. In treating women like a china plate, he is showing her off, "look at how beautiful she is!" Thus, in a sense chivalry is forcing men to say that women are in fact superior and ought to be treated as such.
Finally I would agree that sexism is not, nor will it ever be a good thing. But I do not agree that chivalry and sexism are the same things. The attitudes of each are so vastly different. Therefore in challenging one final argument, chivalry would not destroy society, rather it would enhance society. If all men realized that the woman he was next to was something to which should be shown honor think about what might happen. Perhaps, we would be rid of all the rapists, sexual harrassers, and other perverts in society.