Sir Gawain and the Green Knight

SGGK  SGGK combines two different sorts of adventure (the beheading contest and the temptation to commit adultery) with repeated tests of Gawain’s trouthe (truth)—the parallel sets of exchanges of blows (the beheading game) and winnings, as well as his loyalty (to Arthur, the chivalric code, his host at Bercilak’s castle and to the lady).

SGGK  All of these elements fuse into a unified work designed to illustrate the physical and moral perfection of Gawain –How “perfect” is Gawain? Does he fulfill his oaths? Or does he fail as a knight?

SGGK  Things to consider: –What is the connection between the scenery and Gawain’s mental state? –What is the symbolism of the three beasts hunted by Bercilak? –Is there a relationship between the hunting exploits and the “hunt” in the bedroom?

SGGK  More things to consider: –Arthur is said to be the “most courteous of all” knights. What are the characteristics of his court? His knights? His queen? How does he distinguish himself in the opening scene? How is he different from other knights? Does he fulfill some chivalric duty that the other knights neglect?

SGGK  Plus… –Note the use of the terms courtesy, courtly, courtliness, or courteous. –Does the Green Knight play by the rules of courtesy? –Is the GK ultimately a positive or negative figure? –At the end, everyone but Gawain agrees that he is the best of Arthur’s knights. Why does SG disagree?

SGGK  What is the significance of the green girdle in the final lines?  What is the significance of the Pentangle? What is the significance of the 5 fives? Taken together what do they represent? What is on one side of his shield and the other? What is implied about SG’s relationship to the “courtly love” tradition?

SGGK  The Pentangle is called a “token of truth,” the virtue tested by the GK. What promises are made by SG? Which does he keep? What lesson does SG learn?  What is the attitude towards courtly love? Does SG attempt to serve the lady in the poem?

SGGK  What role do the women play in the work? Who are they? How are their roles similar or different?