Sir Gawain and the Green Knight

"That lovely looking maid, she charmed him and she chased.

But every move she made he countered, case by case"

This quote stood out to me because it highlighted the duality of chivalry both as a social and political contract as well as the intricate parallels of lady Bertilak's seduction and the hunt. She charmed and chased him, language that references the ongoing hunt in fitt 3, but there's more going on with respect to Gawain; he isn't running or escaping or being startled like prey, rather he is countering her advances like attacks-- he is fighting. The parallels are noticeable here but chivalry as a code is being tested. In his position, Gawain isn't outright rejecting her to follow the social contract in line with courtly love rules, yet he also isn't completely returning her affections and accepting her advances per the political contract in line with the hospitality he's received. This is interesting because his "fight" is both about resisting her seduction and showing her politeness; but with the dual aspects of chivalry, he is unable to choose one side.

“For man’s crimes can be covered but never made clean; once entwined with sin, man is twinned for all time” (2511-2512)

This quote offers the reader a sobering humbling piece of wisdom, or truth. Reminding us of the inescapable consequences of human imperfection. What struck me about this quote was the blunt message that one's sins can never truly be repented. However, in the bible, the infamous guiding piece of knowledge which almost structures the entirety of the religion, states that although every human being is a sinner, their sins are cleansed through the sacrifice of Jesus Chirst. By the account of this poet, every person is tainted with sin for “all time” , a messaging antithetical to the teaching of the bible. In a time dominated by Christianity I wonder why the poet would choose to present this opposing view to sin. Perhaps the poet’s intentions are to remind readers that regardless of Jesus’s sacrifice, you must never forget your wrong doings. The poet wants to hold us accountable for our actions instead of merely casting our sins aside knowing that our sins are forgiven by god.

"Were I not your nephew my life would mean nothing; to be born of your blood is my body’s only claim. Such a foolish affair is unfitting for a king"(356-358)

This excerpt insinuates the rigid class structures present at the time period. Here, Gawain claims that his bloodline is the only worthwhile aspect of his life. His statement that without his royal bloodline,"my life would mean nothing" demonstrates that lower-class bloodlines are inferior and worthless. This connects to medieval notion that the royal family were inherently superior beings, and the primary purpose of lower classes is to serve them. Additionally, Gawain's claim that challenging the Green Knight was "unfitting for a king" displays how his primary focus was protecting his superiors. He detests the idea of someone above him participating in a risky confrontation, choosing to jeopardize his own well being instead. Ultimately, Sir Gawain and the Green Knight demonstrates the strict hierarchical system in medieval England and how it shapes people's decisions.

Were I not your nephew my life would mean nothing; to be born of your blood is my body's only claim. (356-357)

These two lines struck me, as I felt empathy for Gawain upon reading them - even if he was actually as decent and loyal of a knight as any other, he felt that he was only worthy because he was King Arthur's nephew. Gawain was insecure in his value as a knight and felt he needed to prove himself in some way. I know I have always felt that nagging guilt any time something is "given" to me that I believe I should have "earned". Gawain sees his only worth as being a part of King Arthur's bloodline, undermining any of his own accomplishments.

These lines emphasize the social/class structure at the time - much of a person's honor came solely from the family that they were born into, and linages mattered more than personal achievements. In Gawain's case, he desperately wanted to prove himself worthy independently, rather than relying on his uncle's status as king. This determination, of course, was what led to his near-death.

for with truthful behaviour you honoured my trust

and gave up your gains as a good man should.

(2348-2349)

Throughout the story, Gawain’s “gains” are mentioned several times through his pact of exchanging what he obtains every day with Bertilak. Not only does Bertilak’s rewards from his hunt reflect Gawain’s state during the three days, it also highlights his inability to successfully stay true to his honour despite it being his most prided trait. Although Gawain tries his best to uphold his knightly honour, he slowly learns of his own weaknesses through the three days - he can be easily cornered like a deer, and despite his active resisting of Lady Bertilak’s advances like a boar, he resorts and shies back into being like a fox, trying to sly his way out of a sticky situation.

“Giving up his gains” while supposedly referencing Gawain honouring his side of the pact, can also be interpreted as Gawain’s learning of his own limits. As he has to give what he received during the day to Bertilak, he is also reflecting on his own weaknesses by reliving what he received. Although he prides himself on his honour of being a knight, there is an extent of weakness that just honour cannot protect, shown by the glint of selfishness and dishonesty when he tries to secretly save his own life with the girdle. He needs to give up that impression of honour to dig past his persona and realize the weaknesses he holds. This is what makes him a “good man” - being able to look past that pride and understand his flaws.

"'I'm grateful,' said the lord, 'and, Gawain, this gift

would carry more weight if you cared to confess

by what wit you won it. And when. And where.'

'That wasn't our pact,' he replied. 'So don't pry.

You'll be given nothing greater, the agreement we have

holds good!'”

(1392-1397)

I think this section of the poem is rather important for discerning how Gawain views everything that is, and has, happened to him. It almost makes prevalent the way that he approaches “games” and how his brain works in order to create the best outcomes for himself. The passage previously mentioned shows that Gawain is willing to find loopholes in games and agreements if they are to make things easier or better for him. This is best exemplified in the lines following the King’s questioning on where the kisses have been coming from: “That wasn’t our pact, . . . so don’t pry. You’ll be given nothing greater, the agreement we have holds good!” He almost makes a joke out of the fact that he doesn’t want to share in order to lighten the mood and create an atmosphere that does not cause suspicion over his actions. This small section gives hints to Gawain’s character and his intelligence that we can only assume will be utilized as foreshadowing for the later portions of the poem, in which he will (most likely) encounter the Green Knight once again.

"I am the weakest of your warriors and the feeblest of wit;

loss of my life would be grieved the least.

Were I not your nephew my life would mean nothing;

to be born of your blood is my body’s only claim.

Such a foolish affair is unfitting for a king,

so, being first to come forward, it should fall on me."

(355-359)

These lines stood out to me because of the way Sir Gawain ties his entire self worth to the king. The only reason his life matters is because he is the king's nephew and share’s the king’s noble blood. This also shows that one of the most important traits of a knight is humility, and highlights that his identity is mostly shaped by his blood and lineage rather than what the things that he does. The importance of nobility is shown through reading this poem, showing that a person's life has little value if not related to someone of high class and power, such as the king. The task given by the green knight is seen to be so absurd and foolish that the king isn’t even fit to do it. This passage reflects the time that this poem was written, which was in the 14th century within the medieval ages. Especially in the time where the Catholic church was at the centre of everything, the trait of sacrificing oneself for God was truly noble, and the act of Sir Gawain willing to sacrifice himself for the King reflects his good character. Knights clearly seem to emphasize honor and duty over survival. Sir Gawain willing to sacrifice himself and do anything to protect the king and court shows his values of humility and service towards others. He even talks down on himself by calling himself feeble and weak, insisting his life is not worth living. These lines show that he is truly an ideal knight.

""What! Is this Arthur’s house?” he hollered, / “The renown of which runs through countless countries? / Where now is your haughtiness, and your high conquests, / your fierceness and your fine boasting?"" (309-312)

This part of the poem intrigued me because it challenged the reputation of King Arthur's knights, and highlighted the fact that the high-ranking noble knights might not be as perfect as society believes them to be. The Green Knight calls them out for their pride, victories, and “bragging” of their courage. This touches on a significant occurrence within the human race in which the desire to show-off and feel superior to others can sometimes consume people and paint them as egocentric, just as the Green Knight views the other knights. These lines are worth remembering to keep a person humble and self-aware, because, frankly, it is undesirable for someone to falsely talk themselves up with nothing to back up their claims. This part of the poem gives a warning to people to refrain from being too proud of themselves, otherwise, at the very least, they pose the risk of being called out.

"‘This knight’s the best I know.

By wagering this way

his gains will grow and grow.’" (1645-1647)

The host, Bertilak, acknowledges Gawain for his participation in the game of exchange and for his knightly chivalry. I was drawn to this quote because it seemed to be both a display of genuine appreciation and a test of Gawain's chivalry, encompassing loyalty, courtesy, honesty, and more. This quote emerges after an incident where a lady tests and manipulates Gawain for a kiss. If Gawain accepts the lady's sexual advances, he demonstrates respect and courtesy but undermines truth, loyalty, and honor as either a knight or a guest in the lord's house. Conversely, if Gawain refuses and stays loyal to the host, he risks offending the lady and coming across as impolite and discourteous. As a result, I believe that ‘gains’ encompass both the kisses and gifts as well as the guilt he accumulates after accepting the lady’s kisses. The author illustrates that while the gains increase, so do Gawain's guilt and internal conflict, showing that knightly chivalry is contradictory by having him choose one part over another.

“But no wonder if a fool should fall for a female

and be wiped of his wits by womanly guile

it's the way of the world.” (2414-2416)

Throughout the story, the romantic side plot between Gawain and Lady Bertilak was intriguing to me because of their personalities and the dynamic between them. Although Gawain has quite a strong moral compass, his shortcomings reveal themselves through his tendency to be a people-pleaser. For example, he gives way and kisses her and accepts the girdle from her. On the other hand, Lady Bertilak has a strong and dominating demeanor that makes him an easy target for persuasion and manipulation. I think their dynamic fits very close to the “foolish man” and “temptress” archetype which is interesting to see take place in a poem written in the 14th century. It’s fascinating to think about how much these archetypes and this kind of dynamic have evolved over time and persisted well into present day storytelling. This dynamic can also be seen in Marvell’s “The Garden” but through the usage of allusions with Apollo and Daphne as well as Pan and Syrinx. It is a very clear structure rooted in heteronormative views and traditional gender norms as it further perpetuates the notion that “boys will be boys” and that men are innately in love with women while women are sexualized as “man-eaters” who can’t help but flirt with men.

“Now through England’s realm he rides and rides, / Sir Gawain, God’s servant, on his grim quest, / passing long dark nights unloved and alone, / foraging to feed, finding little to call food, / with no friend but his horse through forests and hills / and only our Lord in heaven to hear him.” (691-696)

I found this passage interesting because of its religious references. Referring to Gawain as “God’s servant” implies that his pursuit of the Green Knight makes him saint-like. I find this framing of Gawain’s mission to be unusual, since the Green Knight is only engaged in an agreement with Sir Gawain; he poses no threat to King Arthur, the other knights, or the kingdom. Gawain is not pursuing the Green Knight for any reason other than that he intends to keep his word. Perhaps this is the nature of the time period, that those in positions of authority will always have their actions justified by interpretations of their religions. The phrase “only our Lord in heaven to hear him” is another reference to Gawain’s spirituality, and perhaps is why the agreement between him and the Green Knight does not escalate, because he feels he is also morally bound to his religion. However, I find the use of the word “servant” unfitting for Gawain, as his pursuit of the Green Knight is not guided by much more than his reputation as a knight.

“And he showed them the scar at the side of his neck,

confirming his breach of faith like a badge

of blame.” (2498-2500)

I find this quote intriguing because it represents signs of strength greater than what is physically expected of knights. Sir Gawain, upon realizing his dishonesty and cowardice was tested and proven to be weak, holds great amount of contempt for himself for accepting the girdle and keeping it a secret but also betraying his values as a chivalrous knight. He loses trust in his worthiness and his values as an honorable man. Thus, at this point he may either continue to self condemn in private or own up to his faults openly. As in the quote, it is through his embrace of his past mistakes and exposing the mark it has left on his body (and his mind), that we see exemplary strength of one’s morals and character. This strength far exceeds winning in combat or the physical toughness of some knights which is highly praised. Such transformation of Sir Gawain’s character - from losing faith in oneself and cursing oneself as he originally does - to gathering the courage to admit the truth and accept any and all judgement of one’s character from society is of greater difficulty than once again easily concealing one’s weaknesses from the public. Just like how the skin on his neck was weak and was cut from the sword, it was then also able to heal, leaving only a small mark behind from what had happened. So, we too can turn our mistakes into lessons and heal over from them.

“though in truth I'm not nearly such a noble knight.

I don't dare to receive the respect you describe

and in no way warrant such worthy words.” (1242-1244)

This line stood out for me as it is quite a different opinion on Gawain’s character than we have heard previously. We are frequently told, especially early on, that he is the epitome of a chivalrous knight: the narrator and all of those close to Gawain describe him as noble, loyal, honest, and generous (and handsome too!). But, this line seems to say the opposite, and there are other lines that seem to do the same. One such line is: “[w]ere I not your nephew my life would mean nothing; to be born of your blood is my body's only claim” (356-357). Gawain does not seem to think of himself as the virtuous knight everyone else sees him as, which is interesting as he himself is the only person to say anything other than praise in regard to his own character. This could be caused by some sort of imposter syndrome, maybe caused by the fact that he is so young compared to all the other knights at Arthur’s roundtable. Perhaps he feels as if he is unworthy of being at the same table as the great Arthur and all of his mighty knights. Or, maybe it is simply because he is everything he is said to be, and he is too humble and virtuous to even think of accepting such praise. This would also be very fitting and would make sense; the author could have done this just to further highlight the point that Gawain is the best of the best - the most noble and chivalrous knight there is.

I am weakest of your warriors and feeblest of wit;

loss of my life would be grieved the least. (354-355)

This quote in the poem stood out to me as it is one of the first moments when Sir Gawain becomes a distinct character, setting him apart from the rest of Arthur’s Court and the Knights of the round table. In this line, Gawain signals to us his perceived inferiority among the knights and the Kingdom of Camelot. We are told how he’s perceived and how he perceives himself in comparison to the rest of the knights.

This information is important as it frames our understanding of Gawain’s character before he takes on this lethal feat. We can observe his bravery despite being, as he describes himself, ‘feeble’. The test of his integrity and bravery is more interesting, when the character taking on the task is not certain to succeed. Although none are likely to emerge victorious if they took on the same task. But the task also gives him an opportunity for redemption, and to establish himself as important as he does something no one from Arthur’s Court does except Arthur himself.

"This courtly committee approaches the king / to offer up heartfelt advice our hero. / And sounds of sadness and sorrow were heard / that one as worthy and well-liked as Gawain / should suffer that strike but offer no stroke in / reply. / Yet keeping calm the knight / just quipped, 'Why must I shy / away? If fate is kind / or cruel man still must try.'" (556-565)

There is no doubt that everyone is heartbroken that Gawain must pursue this task. They fear for his safety and wellbeing yet Gawain puts his life in the hands of fate and truly believes that god, or in this case fate will aid him in his journey to keep him safe. When Gawain states that "If fate is kind / or cruel man still must try." (564-565), it made me understand how capable he is as a knight.

He is not afraid of the possibility of death nor is he afraid of the dangers he must encounter on his treacherous tasks. From this passage, I am convinced that Gawain possesses the skills of someone who is loyal and dependable yet very humble. He does not gloat or brag and for that, it is clear he believes those who are good will only have good come their way. Additionally, I find it interesting how despite his humbleness, Gawain remains confident. I find that in many stories I have read, those who are humble tend to portrayed as meek. Yet, when Gawain questions "Why must [he] shy / away?" (563-564), it demonstrates his confidence which is a trait I admire.

It's evident in this passage that Gawain is dependable, that he is well-liked, and confident in his skills. One thing I look forward to is how Gawain's belief in fate and God will be developed as he heavily puts trust in fate for things to go well.

"By God, I'm glad the favour I've called for will fall from your fist. You've perfectly repeated the promise we've made and the terms of the contest are crystal clear. Except for one thing: you must solemnly swear that you'll seek me yourself; that you'll search me out to the ends of the earth to earn the same blow." (390-396)

The Green Knight's challenge to Sir Gawain in Sir Gawain and the Green Knight - that Gawain must seek him out in a year and a day to exchange blows - serves as an active test of Gawain's commitment, honesty, and honour to his word. This situation forces Gawain to fulfill his promise to the Green Knight, and places emphasis on the importance of Gawain’s accountability and personal integrity.

The Green Knights challenge is not only a test of physical courage, but also a test of Gawain's personal morals and values. By accepting the challenge, Gawain demonstrates discipline and commitment to knightly virtues (honour and bravery). However as the story progresses, we see that Gawain experiences troubles in staying true to these morals and values. Being human, he falters at times and goes against his once honourable self. Gawain's journey emphasizes the difference between societal expectations (bravery, honour, loyalty, and honesty) and personal limitations.

This passage highlights the struggle between personal desires and ethical duty. Even as a reader who does not have prior knowledge of the context of this poem, this passage serves as a reminder; there is great value in keeping one's commitments regardless of its personal cost and consequences.

“for the form of the figure is a five-pointed star

and each line overlaps and links with the last

so is ever-eternal, and when spoken of in England

is known by the name of the endless knot.

So it suits this soldier in his spotless armour,

fully faithful in five ways five times over.

For Gawain was as good as the purest gold -

devoid of vices but virtuous, loyal

and kind,

so bore that badge on both

his shawl and shield alike.

A prince who talked the truth.

A notable. A knight.” (627-639)

This passage in Sir Gawain and the Green Knight stood out to me because it describes the pentangle (five-pointed star) depicted on the shield given to Gawain before he leaves to go on his quest to fulfill the oath he gave and relates the symbol to Gawain. The pentangle seems to represent knighthood or the chivalry that Gawain embodies. By portraying this symbol on Gawain’s shield and making chivalry an important aspect of his appearance and personality, the poem almost seems to be foreshadowing that it will be his chivalry and loyalty that are challenged by the Green Knight throughout the poem. This quotation seems to present Gawain as the ideal knight “as good as the purest gold,” however, we see how he struggles to maintain this purity later in the poem when he is faced with moral tests and deals with his instincts for self-preservation.

I also liked the imagery of the pentangle’s “endless knot” which makes me think about how Gawain may feel as though his duties and the chivalry he must perform are inescapable. He accepts his fate as soon as he cuts the head of the Green Knight and does not waver in his loyalty and the oaths he makes until Lady Bertilak’s gift of the green girdle. The idea of a knot could also relate to the Gawain's oaths because they are both binding in nature.

“If fate is kind / or cruel, man still must try.” (564-565)

This sentence hit me with its quiet power. It’s easy to be impressed by flashy demonstrations of courage, but this sentence grounds courage and makes it something much more accessible: tenacity against the unknown. Gawain knows that what he’s moving toward might be destruction — an ax to the neck, vowed and certain and he dismisses the lament of the court with an honest fact: no matter what happens, it’s his duty to try.

It is how this moment redefines heroism that I was so drawn to. It’s not about being sure or having any assurance of victory. It’s about going on despite. This isn't reckless arrogance either, Gawain is not behaving as though he is invincible. Rather, he risks failure or death, but persists because it is the right thing to do.

It is one where people avoid making difficult choices or unpleasant truths, and Gawain's attitude is refreshing. It reminds one that courage is subtle, persistent, and generally alone, the type that does not call attention to itself but shows up nonetheless. You keep going even when fate is against you.

"So relenting at last he let her speak, and promptly she pressed him to take the present, and he granted her wish, gave in with good grace, though the woman begged him not to whisper a word of this gift to her husband, and Gawain agreed; those words of theirs within those walls should stay." (1859-1865)

Sir Gawain, often celebrated as the epitome of chivalry in Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, reveals moments of nervousness and dishonesty that challenge the notion of an ideal knight. His nervousness is palpable when he hears the Green Knight sharpening his axe, as evidenced by the quote, "'My God,' cried Gawain, 'that grinding is a greeting. My arrival is honoured with the honing of an axe up there. Then let the Lord decide. "Oh well" won't help me here. I might well lose my life but freak sounds hold no fear'" (2205-2211). The vivid imagery of the grinding axe and Gawain’s exclamation to God expose his deep-seated fear, despite his attempt to mask it with bravado. This vulnerability underscores that even a knight of his caliber cannot escape the human instinct to dread impending danger, tarnishing the image of unflinching perfection.

Likewise, Gawain’s dishonesty emerges when he accepts the green girdle from Bertilak’s wife and conceals it, as seen in the quote, "So relenting at last he let her speak, and promptly she pressed him to take the present, and he granted her wish, gave in with good grace, though the woman begged him not to whisper a word of this gift to her husband, and Gawain agreed; those words of theirs within those walls should stay" (1859-1865). By agreeing to keep the girdle a secret, Gawain violates his pact with Bertilak to share all winnings, prioritizing self-preservation over honor. These instances of fear and deceit reveal that Gawain, though admirable, is flawed, suggesting that the ideal of a perfect knight is an illusion. The poem thus portrays human imperfection as an inescapable reality, even for those who embody the highest virtues.

“I am your weakest of warriors and feeblest of wit; loss of my life would be grieved the least. Were I not your nephew my life would mean nothing; to be born of your blood is my body’s only claim.” (354-357)

These lines provide emphasis on the importance of social hierarchy in the story. Gawain is willing to sacrifice himself for Arthur, as he believes that a king is too powerful and significant to participate in the trial. He states that if he were not the nephew of royalty, his life would be meaningless and he would have no status or importance in society. Gawain is so content with sacrificing himself to show his nobility and loyalty to those above him in the hierarchy, which is a recurring pattern throughout this story.

This line speaks to me because although we do not have an explicit social hierarchy today, I understand why Gawain feels that his life is dictated by the social connections that he has. I see this in day to day life, as people are constantly comparing themselves to others that they see as role models, and striving to change themselves to be more like the “perfect” people in society. I have empathy for Gawain, and it is interesting to see how people have always had a social order and hierarchy, even if it is not dictated by wealth or royalty.

"'Why should I shy away? If fate is kind or cruel man still must try." (563-565)

This quote stood out to me as I think it encapsulates the honour code that is expected of the knight. I think that the poem focuses a lot on highlighting the royal hierarchy and the different expectations of each role. When looking specifically at the role of a knight there is an expectation of bravery and loyalty that sets it apart in its role within this hierarchy. Gawain's word show that honour does not lie in expecting a favourable outcome, instead facing his duties regardless of the risks that follow. Additionally, I think that the use of a rhetorical question makes this line more impactful and powerful. When asking "why should I shy away?", the confidence that Gawain eludes suggests that he has never questioned his role as a knight, instead his sense of bravery and loyalty is just of second nature to him. This line acknowledges the unpredictability of fate, but insists that human effort is essential in the process of any journey. This line shows that Gawain's motivations as a knight are not sustained through the expectations of success and fame, instead it adds a sense of humility and depth to his character.

"For man's crimes can be covered but never made clean; once entwined with sin, man is twinned for all time." (2511-2512)

This quote was very important in showing that although in the eyes of the Green Knight and King Arthur he had completed his challenge, Gawain still felt as though he had failed. He believes that in him lying about the green girdle his sins shine brighter than all the good he had done in the process. The following lines showcase the contrast between Gawain's feelings of failure after his return and the celebration and happiness flowing throughout the castle. It really shows how Gawain's actions in his game were not of real concern to the others involved. I'm sure this attitude also makes Gawain question his own worth. The line "once entwined with sin, man is twinned for all time" explains Gawain's view that his mistruth in his knightly challenge will forever haunt him regardless of what others think.