The story “Sir Gawain and the Green Knight” explores several prominent themes, including honor, pride leading to manipulation and domination, and the intriguing game itself. These themes captivate the audience and leave them eager for more of the story.
Honor and pride are significant elements in the game being played by the Green Knight, as he believes they will compel one of the knights to accept his challenge. To provoke a response, the knight purposely insults King Arthur and his court. Although King Arthur is a proud king, this particular moment showcases his foolish pride. Even before knowing the specifics of the agreement with the Green Knight, Arthur confidently declares that he will not fail to fight if a contest is desired. At this point, the audience questions why he describes this insolent knight as “courteous”, as the knight had burst into the dining room armed and on horseback, demanding to see “the captain of this crowd”. This is the initial illustration of Arthur’s foolish pride, as he responds in this manner to protect the reputation of his knights and court, ultimately leading him into trouble. The knight reveals the rules of the game, leaving the audience wondering why none of the knights of the round table are stepping forward to accept the challenge. He further insults the king and his court directly, labeling them cowards and openly laughing at them until Arthur blushes and rises to accept the challenge himself. Now, the crowd becomes curious.They are concerned about the fate of Arthur because there is surely a hidden condition in the knight game, and Arthur foolishly falls into the trap. At this point, Sir Gawain steps forward to take Arthur’s place and the Green Knight asks him to swear an oath to find him in a year’s time to fulfill the second part of the bargain. By immediately and without hesitation making this pledge, Sir Gawain demonstrates great honor and pride. He quickly replies, “How do I get there? Where do you live?” Naturally, the audience is now on the edge of their seats, eagerly waiting to see if Sir Gawain’s attack will have any effect on the Green Knight.
The story’s major theme revolves around manipulation and domination, which the Green Knight skillfully employs to convince King Arthur and his court to accept the challenge. The Green Knight cleverly preys on their pride and honor, fully aware that they are more likely to base their decision on these emotions rather than logical reasoning. This proves appealing to the audience as they enjoy witnessing the Green Knight as a captivating “villain.” Notably, he exudes a commanding presence, being towering in size and displaying fearlessness towards the Knights of the Round Table. Furthermore, he repeatedly insults King Arthur in person right from the moment he enters the room. The initial manipulative tactic employed by the knight involves his self-presentation: appearing fearless, proud, and without armor. “A green horse great and thick; A headstrong steed of might, In broidered bridle quick, Mount matched man aright.” This intimidating display serves as the first step in persuading Arthur to accept the challenge.
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