The code of the samurai is similar to that of European chivalry. Justice, Courage, Benevolence, Politeness, Truthfulness, Honor, Loyalty, and self-control are emphasized traits which the Samurai were to exemplify.
Beyond being simply a class of soldiers and warriors, samurai are well known for their chivalrous attitude. Their place in society labels them as servants who serve a lord or master. In Japanese, these masters were called "Daimyo." Samurai served their daimyo with fearless courage and humility.
In addition to serving their masters, they showed respect to everything in nature, living and non-living. This is a result of their teachings in Buddhism, Sinto, and Confucianism, which emphasize the importance of the environment. They also show this kind of respect on the battlefield. Samurai combat calls for a certain etiquette which embodies respect, fairness, and good-sportsmanship. For example, if a bushido were to draw a weapon in an unfair scenario, he would be labeled dirty, unfair, and unrefined.
It is these traits that define the character of the Samurai