Literatures en anglès fins al segle XVII

Dr Marta Ortega Saéz

Sir Gawain and the Green Knight

Reading questions:

Fit 1
Lines 1-20. How does the narrative start? Why does it start like this? Opens talking
about the matter of Rome (broad contextualization) to show exaltation of the past.
It narrows down little by little to King Arthur. Poet inscribes the poem in a wider
tradition and then narrows it down.
L.30-36. What is the narrator doing in this passage? He is talking directly to the
reader and he is going to pass the story to the reader as he heard it, this means,
he is going to tell the story exactly as it happened. Legitimacy to the story.
L. 37. Time of year? Place? Participants?
How long does the celebration last?
Christmas. Camelot (world of protection, feasts, home, warm place). The king with
his soldiers, members of the round table. It last 2 weeks (fortnight). Christmas was
chosen for a reason, Christian tradition, ideal moment for something dramatic to
happen.
L. 72. At New Year, how do they sit at table?
Class distinction in their sitting (Noble→ high). This poem is called a Midwinter
poem, roots in the Celtic world. Conventional medieval beauty→ queen.
L. 85. Why won’t Arthur eat? What is Arthur like?
He didn’t eat because he waited until everyone was served. He was young,
impulsive.
L. 135- 220. In what terms is the Green Knight described? What about his attire?
Green (everything: horse, skin, attire…), monster, super strong, powerful, half-
giant, well-proportioned… [Green is the idea of life and the same time nature.
Nature can be seen as something which gives life, but also that can take it away.]
He carries an axe and a bough of holly. In terms of symbols, the axe represents
death and the plant represents life.
L. 256-64. Why has he come to Arthur’s court?
He wants to play a Christmas game. The game is to invite all the young men to
give a trike and in a year a day he will give a strike back. They could not ignore the
challenge: honour.
L. 330. Who is first to accept the Green Knight’s challenge?
The first to accept is King Arthur.
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Dr Marta Ortega Saéz

L. 353. How does Sir Gawain describe himself? What are Gawain’s arguments for
accepting the challenge?
He said he’s the weakest and if he dies, the loss is not as important. The arguments
to accepting the challenge show his humility, honest and loyalty. Code of chivalry.
His speech is very elaborate, he respects rank.
L. 394. What will bind Sir Gawain to the Green Knight after the beheading?
His promise is to accept and respect his word of honour.
When must Gawain meet the Green Knight again? What might this suggest?
In a day and a year, he must meet him again and take his axe, in the green chapel
and he will get the blow back.
How does the fit end? Think about the beginning.
Moving from the festive carelessness in the beginning to seriousness moment, very
brave situation for Sir Gawain.
Fit 2
Lines
491-535. How does the second part begin? Mood of the poem?
The second part begins explaining how Arthur and Sir Gawain feel about the
challenges. Arthur feels excited because he loves challenges while Sir Gawain feels
pleased that someone agreed on playing with him. The mood of the poem is
expectant.
536. On what day does he go off to look for him?
Sir Gawain sets off on his journey on All Saints' Day (November 1st), as he must
find the Green Knight by New Year's Day. He is bravery, courageous.
567. How does Sir Gawain prepare for the journey?
Gawain prepares by arming himself in full armour. Sir Gawain journey has to be
understood in two points: A psychological and spiritual journey for him.
619. Having armed himself, Gawain takes up his shield. What device is painted on
the shield and what does it signify?
A pentangle engraved in bright gold colours. It is a symbol that Salomon devised
to represent truth in balance with justice. “It is called, I believe, ‘the endless knot’,
in all parts of England.” The Pentangle is the symbol of perfection, the perfect
knight. The Pentangle, the 5 fives represent the strongest protection and
coherence. The symbology of number 5:
- 5 senses/wits
- 5 fingers (He does not mean to do harm)
- 5 wounds of Christ (as he was very catholic)
- 5 joys of Mary (his strength came from this, and it leaves a sense of
protection to Sir Gawain)
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Dr Marta Ortega Saéz

- 5 virtues of courtly love

- Liberality, Lovingkindness, Continence (justice), Courtesy and Piety
(compassion).
650. Is Gawain’s character described?
Yes, first he was faultless in all his five senses; next, he never failed in his five
fingers, and all his trust was in the five wounds of Christ on the cross, as the Bible
describes. And whenever this knight was hard pressed in battle, his firm belief,
above all else, was that his strength came from the five joys that the noble queen
of heaven took in her child. It was fitting then that Gawain had her image depicted
inside his shield, so when he looked at it his heart would not falter.
He is characterized by his sympathy, courtesy, bravery… He would be comforted by
looking at this image inside the shield.
691 – 705. How does the narrator root the story in reality?
He roots the story with references of real places.
713 – 739. What hardships does he face in his search for the Green Knight?
He had to go through cliffs alone and had to fight with aggressive warriors,
dragons, wolves, trolls, bulls, bears, boars, and giants. He could have died multiple
times and the winter was very tough.
How is his piety revealed throughout the journey?
It says that if he hadn't been helped by the lord he would have died. Also, he
appealed to Our Lady to show him where to go to find somewhere to rest.
763. What kind of help does he get?
His prayers seem to be heard, and he finds a moated dwelling which he thinks is
the finest castle a knight has ever owned.
814. At the castle, by whom does the porter swear? Why?
The porter swears by St. Peter, a sign of his religious devotion and the importance
of Christian faith in the story. He is who opens the door to the dead. Irony because
he is supposed to get his head chopped.
840 – 848. What is the Lord of the castle like?
The Lord of the castle (Bertilak) is described as large, powerful, and generous, with
a commanding yet friendly presence.
How are the court and the banquet described?
The court is lively, welcoming, and filled with joyful people. The banquet is
sumptuous and full of feasting, highlighting medieval hospitality and excess
900 – 927. What do the people of the castle know of Gawain?
They know he is a member of the round table.
941. Who are the important ladies of the castle?
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Dr Marta Ortega Saéz

Two ladies are described; One is very beautiful, Lady Bertilak; the other one is an
old woman (not beautiful).
In what terms are they described?
There is a contrast established between these women. Bertilak is young, beautiful,
and graceful, while the older woman is described as wrinkled, unattractive,
mysterious and clothed in fine garments—a contrast between youth and age,
beauty and wisdom.
975, 1010. How does Gawain behave towards the lady and the court?
He embraces the old lady and kisses the beautiful one with the permission of the
Lord.
1037. And towards the lord?
Gawain shows deep respect for the lord.
1946, 1967. What does Sir Gawain say about his quest?
He tells him he is in a mission, and asks him if he knows where the green chapel is.
1077. What do you think about the Green Chapel being so close to the castle?
It’s an interesting coincidence.
1089 - …. What does the lord of the castle propose?
The Lord says that he can stay there and suggests an exchange of winnings. Very
typical in Germanic culture.
Why does Sir Gawain accept the proposal? What does he say before the proposal?
Gawain accepts because he sees it as a harmless and fair exchange, upholding his
chivalric duty to be an honourable guest. Before the proposal, Gawain thanks the
lord for his hospitality and expresses relief at finding a safe place to stay before
facing the Green Knight.

Fit 3: The three temptations.

Lines
Description of the hunting scene. What is the first animal to be hunted?
First animal hunted: A deer (prey, not savage, elegant)—chosen for its symbolic
innocence and timidity, mirroring Gawain’s initial test of virtue.
1207 - … How does Gawain behave towards the lady when she visits him in his
bedroom?
He acts accordingly to the values of courtly love, and maintaining the decorum of
chivalry, but rejecting the offer. He acts politely. Sir Gawain gets one kiss from the
Lady.
1283 - What does the narrator remark about the situation?
Remarks Gawain’s discomfort as he didn’t have feelings for the Lady. Also his self-
control.
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Dr Marta Ortega Saéz

1300 - How does the lady trick Gawain into accepting the kiss?
She convinces him that a kiss is a token of affection, not a betrayal of loyalty.
1320 – 1370. Comment on the slaughter scene… Which word is repeated a lot?
Why?
The most repeated word is CUT, to emphasize the process of butchering. He use
this word to make a reference to the decapitation of Sir Gawain.
1382 - Does Gawain give his gains to the lord?
Yes, he does. He returns the kiss he received from the Lady
1412 – 1467. Is the second hunt different from the first one? What is the second
animal?
Yes, it was a wild boar. It symbolizes power.
1470 – 1557. How does the lady act in the second temptation scene?
She is bolder, she tries to convince him with language, she is a good manipulator.
1497 – 1500. How does Gawain parry her attack?
He stops her, leaves the room and gets two kisses. He acts in a more sharp and
direct way.
1635 – 1647. Does Gawain offer his winnings in return for the boar?
1660. How does Gawain feel towards the lady?
1678 - What does the lord say before the final hunt / temptation?
1690 - … How is the third hunt described? And the animal hunted?
It’s a Fox, a very clever, cunning and sly animal.
1748. What are Gawain’s feelings as the day of the beheading approaches?
He is having trouble sleeping, he’s nervous.
1755 - …. What is his problem when she seduces him for the 3rd time?
He finds it more difficult to resist the temptation.
1788. What’s the importance of Gawain swearing by Saint John?
Saint John is the saint of celibacy, so that means that he won’t be involved in any
physical actions.
1817. What does the lady offer him first?
First, a red ring. Later a girdle (represents failure of the code).
1846 – 1858. Why does Gawain accept the girdle?
He accepts it because the Lady says it is magic, you cannot die if you wear it. He is
desperate, so he accepts it hopping it will protect him. Contradiction with the code
of chivalry; he was brave to accept the challenge, but now he is showing his
weakness. He chooses survival over courtesy.
In what ways has the lady approached Gawain so far?
What is the significance of the girdle being green?
1862. What does the lady obtain from Sir Gawain?
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Dr Marta Ortega Saéz

1872. What does Sir Gawain do after having accepted the gift?
He confesses his sins.
Is his absolution from sin deserved?
No, because he is not being honest and loyal to the lord. Major dilemma.
1928. What is the significance of Gawain’s tunic being blue?
Blue is the colour of truth.
1935 – 1950. Does Gawain give all his winnings after the third hunt?
He gives three kisses but keeps the girdle. That is why he is sly like a fox.
1970. Are Bertilak’s words straightforward: “In good faith, most willingly everything
I promised I’ll give you indeed.”?
These lines show that Lord Bertilak is a liar too (not only lies Sir Gawain). He is the
green knight.
Fit 4
Lines
1998. “The dawn defeats dark, as the Lord ordains it” How does the beginning of Fit
4 reflect the overall theme of the poem?
The beginning shows Sir Gawain’s feelings.
1999 -… What is the weather like outside? Why is this relevant?
It is cold, dark and cloudy.
2031-2045. Notice again the careful description of Gawain putting on his clothes and
gear. Why does Sir Gawain wear the girdle?
He wears it for protection.
2090 – 2125. What is the importance of the servant’s speech to Gawain?
It is important because is a warning. He is telling Sir Gawain to not get on there.
What is Gawain’s answer?
He doesn’t take his advice.
2171-2184. How is the Green Chapel described?
It is like a cave, a doomed place. Looks like the access of hell, resembles de Celtic.
Another world.
2185 – 2196. What does Sir Gawain say about it? What is its significance?
2200 – 2204. What heightens the atmosphere of fear and horror?
He hears a very strong noise from the cliff; as if someone was edging a scythe,
threatening noise.
2250 - … How does Sir Gawain react to the Green Knight’s intentions to cut off his
head?
Sir Gawain accepts his destiny.
2280. Is the Green Knight fair in comparing himself with Sir Gawain?
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Dr Marta Ortega Saéz

The Green Knight is not fair because he is alive (he got his head back), and if he does
the same thing to Gawain he will die.
How many blows does the Green Knight deal?
With the first two blows he doesn’t hurt him.
2312. What happens with the last one?
He gets a small cut on his neck.
2331 - … Does the attitude of the Green Knight change after the third blow?
2340 – 2356. What reasons does he give for the 3 blows?
2360 - 6. Who is the Green Knight?
The Green Knight is Lord Bertilak.
What does he say is Gawain’s failure?
He fails because he wasn’t loyal to the lord. His punishment is this small cut on his
neck.
2368. How does the Green Knight interpret Gawain’s failure?
2369 - …. How does Gawain react?
2415 – 2428. How do you read: “it’s no wonder if a fool…be brought to his downfall
through the viles of women…. Maybe I should be excused.”
The blame is put on women as they are represented as people who can’t be trusted,
they are vile.
2433 – 5. Why does Gawain accept to wear the girdle?
2445 – 2470. Who is Morgan Le Fay? Why did the Green Knight go to King Arthur’s
castle? How do you find this explanation?
She is a sorceress who hates queen Guinevere.
2506 – 9. What are the band of blame and mark of untruth?
The band of blame is the girdle, the mark of untruth is the small cut.
How do King Arthur and the Knights react to Gawain’s confession? What does this
suggest?
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Dr Marta Ortega Saéz

CHIVALRIC CODE / COURTLY LOVE

- How does Sir Gawain and the Green Knight reflect the values of chivalry and courtly
love?
The poem showcases the chivalric values of honour, loyalty, courage, and truth. Gawain
strives to uphold these virtues in his quest, particularly when facing the Green Knight’s
challenge and resisting Lady Bertilak’s seduction. Courtly love is depicted through Lady
Bertilak’s advances, testing Gawain’s restraint and loyalty to his host.
- How are the chivalric code and the chivalric virtues represented in the book Sir Gawain
and the Green Knight?
The chivalric virtues—bravery, courtesy, honour, and faith—are emphasized throughout
the poem. Gawain initially embodies them fully but falters slightly when he keeps the
green girdle, revealing his human imperfection.
- Does the lady's behaviour follow the rules of courtly love? Why? Or why not?
No, she does not strictly follow the rules. While courtly love involved flirtation and
admiration from a distance, Lady Bertilak is aggressive in her seduction, which
contradicts the ideal of subtle, respectful courtly love.
- How does Lady Bertilak test Sir Gawain, and what do her actions reveal about his
character?
She tempts Gawain three times, challenging his virtue. He resists the first two advances
but accepts the green girdle, revealing his fear of death. This shows that Gawain values
his life more than perfect chivalric honour.
- What is the main theme of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight? What dilemma regarding
the Chivalry Code does it introduce?
The main theme is the struggle between ideal virtue and human imperfection. The
dilemma is whether absolute chivalry is achievable or if personal survival justifies
breaking the code.
- The Role of Courtly Love in Sir Gawain and the Green Knight: How is the theme of
courtly love explored in the poem?
Courtly love is explored through Lady Bertilak’s seductions, revealing the tension
between desire and duty. Gawain tries to navigate this with polite rejection, but ultimately
fails by accepting the girdle.
- How does the woman change her approach to Sir Gawain through the three temptations?
She starts subtly, grows bolder, and finally manipulates him emotionally by offering the
girdle as a way to save his life.
- How does the Green Knight challenge the values of King Arthur’s court?
He tests their reputation for bravery and honour. His supernatural nature and moral
superiority expose the court’s potential weaknesses.
- Gawain breaks the code of chivalry. Explain how and when. How do you think this
affects the character of Gawain?
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Gawain fails by keeping the girdle, violating honesty. It humbles him, making him realize
the limits of human perfection.
- How was the beheading executed? Why doesn't Sir Gawain get beheaded in the end?
The Green Knight swings three times but only nicks Gawain on the third. The first two
represent his honesty in returning the kisses; the third symbolizes his concealment of the
girdle. His partial dishonesty earns him a minor punishment.
- How are the code of chivalry's flaws exposed through the text? Explain how does
Gawain fail the three temptations test according to the chivalry code he must follow.
The unrealistic expectations of chivalry are exposed. Gawain’s survival instinct proves
that absolute adherence is impossible.

PARALLELISMS
- There are two fits that took place inside. Which fits? Describe the situation and places
of each fit. There are two other fits that took place outside. Which fits? Describe the
connection between the weather and the situation of each fit.
- Inside: Arthur’s court (where the challenge occurs), Bertilak’s castle (seduction
test).
- Outside: The journey through the wilderness (testing endurance) and the Green
Chapel (final test). The harsh weather reflects Gawain’s struggles.

- Why does Sir Gawain reject the lady and how does he do it each time? What are the
things he accepts from her and why? What does her gift to him represent?
He politely rejects the lady's advances, but he accepts the girdle due to fear. The girdle
symbolizes his moral failure.
- Is there any correlation between the hunting scenes and the lady's temptations? Explain
it.
- Deer Hunt → First Temptation: Shy approach, polite resistance.
- Boar Hunt → Second Temptation: More aggressive pursuit, stronger refusal.
- Fox Hunt → Third Temptation: Cunning deception, Gawain keeps the girdle.
- Explain the evolution of Sir Gawain's character through the poem. How does his
understanding of himself and his values change?
He starts as an ideal knight, but by the end, he realizes his flaws. This makes him humbler
and more self-aware.

NATURE
- Why is nature important in Sir Gawain and the Green Knight? What connection does it
have between Sir Gawain and his feelings or what he has to overcome?
Nature symbolizes Gawain’s inner struggles. The harsh landscape tests his endurance,
while the Green Knight represents nature’s unpredictable power.
- How does nature show both beauty and danger at same time?
Nature is breathtaking yet harsh. The Green Knight embodies this duality—impressive
yet threatening.
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Dr Marta Ortega Saéz

CELTIC PRE-CHRISTIAN ELEMENTS VS. ARTHURIAN CHRISTIAN ONES

- Explain the combination of Celtic elements with Christian ones.
- Celtic: Green Knight as a nature deity, the beheading game as an ancient ritual.
- Christian: Gawain’s moral trial, the pentangle as a Christian symbol.

SYMBOLOGY
- The relevance of the number three throughout the poem.
Three temptations, three hunts, three axe swings—all reinforcing the idea of trials and
judgment.
- How are the three hunted animals related to the temptations that Sir Gawain faces in Fit
3?
The deer (gentle), boar (fierce), and fox (cunning) match Gawain’s responses.
- What is the significance of the pentangle on Gawain’s shield?
A pentangle engraved in bright gold colours. It is a symbol that Salomon devised to
represent truth in balance with justice. “It is called, I believe, ‘the endless knot’, in
all parts of England.” The Pentangle is the symbol of perfection, the perfect knight.
The Pentangle, the 5 fives represent the strongest protection and coherence. The
symbology of number 5:
- 5 senses/wits
- 5 fingers (He does not mean to do harm)
- 5 wounds of Christ (as he was very catholic)
- 5 joys of Mary (his strength came from this, and it leaves a sense of
protection to Sir Gawain)
- 5 virtues of courtly love
- Liberality, Lovingkindness, Continence (justice), Courtesy and Piety
(compassion).
- How is the green knight's appearance related to the story and to Sir Gawain's test? why
is he green and big?
Green (everything: horse, skin, attire…), monster, super strong, powerful, half-
giant, well-proportioned… [Green is the idea of life and the same time nature.
Nature can be seen as something which gives life, but also that can take it away.]
He carries an axe and a bough of holly. In terms of symbols, the axe represents
death and the plant represents life.

OTHER TOPICS
- Sir Gawain and the Green Knight is a romance. Which are the characteristics of a
romance, and how do they appear in the poem?
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Dr Marta Ortega Saéz

It includes a noble quest, supernatural elements, trials of virtue, and an ultimate moral
lesson.
- Who is the old lady in King Bertilak de Hautdesert castle? What connects her with
Camelot, King Arthur, and Queen Guinevere?
Morgan le Fay—Arthur’s sister—who orchestrates the test to challenge Camelot’s
reputation.