Through all its complicated twists, redefinings and renamings, "Sir Gawain and the Green Knight" consistently develops the theme of chivalry. ... As Gawain himself knows, the Green Knight's "cut taught [him] cowardice, care for [his] life, / And coveting came after, contrary / Both to largesse and loyalty belonging to knights" " (2379-2381). ... The Green Knight has no real personal stake in the final judgment on Gawain. If anything, by pronouncing Gawain "polished as a pearl,"" the Green Knight is congratulating himself for adding to Gawain's chivalric and worldly education. Thus ev...

• Word Count: 1568
• Approx Pages: 6
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: Undergraduate