Was mercy admired in a duelist?

 title: 'A classical temple with columns.'

Yes, Brantome's text suggests there were varying views on mercy in duelists[1]. Some believed the victor should 'take every advantage one can and be thankful'[1]. However, other accounts describe duelists being praised for showing 'kindness and courtesy' and 'generously' declining to exercise their full rights over a defeated opponent[1]. Ultimately, whether mercy was admired appears to depend on individual perspectives and specific circumstances[1].

Brantome also notes some believed one should not be 'generous to an opponent and run the risk of being murdered by him some other day'[1]. Despite the debates around the topic, 'it will be seen, some real progress had been made—even in the combat a outrance—towards softening these rigours; and quite a number of conquerors had the moderation not to insist on their full rights'[1].