PRESENTATION OUTLINE
MAN AND THE NATURAL WORLD
Gawain is relieved to see a huge, well-protected castle
After the Christmas feasting, Gawain gets ready to leave,
Gawain kisses the lady, who then departs
WHEN THE LORD RETURNS TO THE CASTLE THAT NIGHT, HE PRESENTS GAWAIN WITH A MULTITUDE OF WELL-DRESSED DEER,
On the last day of the game, however, the lady convinces Gawain to accept something else as a "lover’s token": a green girdle, or belt, .
The next morning, Gawain rides out of the castle with a guide, who points him to the Green Chapel
THIS TIME HE CLAIMS HE WAS TESTING TO SEE IF GAWAIN WAS READY
Finally, the Green Knight strikes a third blow
- This time, the axe breaks the skin but doesn't decapitate Gawain.
- Gawain leaps up and arms himself, telling the Green Knight
- that he has met the terms of the agreement and will now defend himself if threatened.
- Laughing, the Green Knight explains to Gawain that
- he is actually the same lord of the castle where Gawain spent his holidays
Refusing Bertilak’s offer of further hospitality, Gawain returns to Arthur’s court.
- He tells the story of his adventure, and declares
- that he will wear the girdle for the rest of his life as a reminder of his failure.
- The court, however, laughs at Gawain and proposes to all wear a similar girdle for his sake.
- This tradition is carried down through generations and
- becomes a symbol of honor.