Summary In Sir Gawain And The Green Knight And Beowulf

In the poems, Sir Gawain and the Green Knight and Beowulf, each main character faces a supernatural adversary. Each adversary is placed within the poem in order to test the main character, Gawain and Beowulf, proudest virtue; Gawain’s honor is tested on multiple occasions by Morgan La Fye, while Beowulf’s reputation is challenged. Each main character meets the expectations of a hero; however, they do so in different formats. Gawain is a chivalric hero, possessing characteristics such as physical ability, nobility, loyalty, and strong religious beliefs. Beowulf is a classic Anglo-Saxon warrior, possessing characteristics such as physical strength, humility, courage, and religious displays. On the surface, audience believes that the supernatural adversary in Sir Gawain and the Green Knight is the Green Knight; however, the true adversary is Morgan La Fye (Morgan), the half-sister of Knight Arthur. Morgan sought to challenge the pride and honor that flushed Camelot. In order to expose the knights of Camelot, Morgan challenges the virtues displayed in the pentangle, the symbol that is the structure for the knights of Camelot. The

Gawain’s physical ability, bravery, and faith are all challenged by Morgan’s plan to expose the knights of Camelot. Gawain is considered a chivalric hero because he is able to resist the temptations of Morgan, display his bravery, and mostly be true to his word. Even when displaying a shortcoming in character, Gawain is able to repent and be humble about his mistake. Finally, Beowulf’s courage, strength, and faith are tested in the battle against Grendel. Beowulf is considered a classic Anglo-Saxon warrior because he has the physical abilities and strength that create a good warrior. To accompany his physical abilities, Beowulf is courageous in his battles, believing that his fate is already determined by