Ever pious, Gawain continuously finds guidance in God: from the image of the Virgin Mary on the inside of his shield to his prayers while journeying alone, to his narrow escape from the adulterous temptations of Lady Bertilak. ... We see this type of spiritual guidance throughout the tale and most concretely in the pentangle painted onto Gawain's shield, which depicts the face of Mary in its center. ... This pentangle represents the five virtues in which Gawain aspires: perfection of his five senses, strength in his five fingers, devotion to the five wounds of Christ on the cross, reflect...

• Word Count: 2814
• Approx Pages: 11
• Grade Level: High School

As Gardner said, " he is the nephew of Authur himself and Mary's own" (Gardner 163). ... One is the Virgin Mary. Gawain is completely devoted to her; he is known by the translator, Gardner, as "Mary's Knight" (Galenet). ... Also in Gawain's favor, he possesses the pentangle on his shield. ...

• Word Count: 2582
• Approx Pages: 10
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School

THE LITERATURE OF ENGLAND OUTLINE I. Characteristics of the Middle Ages A. Christian Beliefs B. Pagan Beliefs C. Adventure II. Characteristics of the Renaissance A. Teachings of Moral and Virtue B. Good vs. Evil III. Characteristics of the Resto...

• Word Count: 2920
• Approx Pages: 12
• Grade Level: High School