Sir Gawain and the Green Knight

During a New Year’s feast at Camelot, a giant knight entirely in green enters King Arthur’s court, offering a 'beheading game.' He dares any knight to strike him with his massive axe, provided the knight accepts a return blow in one year and one day. Sir Gawain, Arthur’s nephew, accepts the challenge to protect his king's honor and decapitates the stranger. To the court's horror, the headless Green Knight picks up his head, reminds Gawain of the appointment at the Green Chapel, and rides away. A year later, Gawain travels through the wilderness to fulfill his oath. He finds shelter in the castle of Lord Bertilak, where he strikes a deal: he will exchange whatever he gains each day with the lord. For two days, Gawain is honest, but on the third, he secretly keeps a magical green girdle gifted by the lady of the castle, believing it will protect him from death. At the Green Chapel, the Green Knight reveals himself as Bertilak. He feints two blows but nicks Gawain on the third for his slight dishonesty regarding the girdle. Gawain returns to Camelot humbled, realizing that even the bravest knight is susceptible to human weakness.

“I am the weakest, well I know, and of wit feeblest; and the loss of my life would be least of any.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the moral of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight?

The moral is that integrity and honesty are more valuable than physical bravery or self-preservation. Gawain learns that even a hero must acknowledge his human failings and the importance of keeping one's word entirely.

Who was the Green Knight really?

The Green Knight was actually Lord Bertilak de Hautdesert, transformed by the sorceress Morgan le Fay. She intended to test the honor of the Round Table and frighten Queen Guinevere to death.

Why did the Green Knight only nick Gawain's neck?

The first two feints represented the two days Gawain was honest with Bertilak about his gifts. The third blow, which caused a small wound, was punishment for Gawain concealing the green girdle on the third day.

What does the green girdle symbolize in the story?

Initially, the girdle symbolizes Gawain's fear of death and his lapse in knightly virtue. By the end, it becomes a symbol of humility and the inherent imperfection of humanity that Gawain wears as a badge of honor.

Is Sir Gawain and the Green Knight a true story?

It is a work of chivalric romance from the 14th century, part of the Arthurian legends. While it reflects the values and courtly culture of the Middle Ages, the characters and supernatural events are mythical.

How does Gawain show his courage in the tale?

Gawain shows courage by accepting the initial challenge to defend Arthur and by traveling to the Green Chapel a year later, fully expecting to be killed to satisfy his oath.