Sir Gawain and The Green Knight Part 1

Sir Gawain and The Green Knight Part 1 & 2

Concept Check! Respond in a full sentence! Define the words: Chivalry Knight Errant Courtly Love Who is the Green Knight and what does he do? What does he ask? Who responds? What happens next?

Focus Questions What details in lines 1 -23 make the Green Knight a larger-than-life figure? Why does the poet go to the trouble to add these details? Why describe the Green Knight in this manner? Why does the Green Knight taunt Arthur and his knights in lines 88 -94? What system of rules is The Green Knight using against The knights of the Round Table? Which ones?

Focus Questions 2 What traits does Gawain reveal about himself in lines 120 -134? How do these traits connect to Gawain being a knight? (Hint: Use the handout, Luke…) What can you infer from lines 185 -189 about Arthur and Gawain’s feelings about their encounter with the Green Knight?

Quick Review What lessons can we pull from Sir Gawain’s life? Define: Gisarme Tunic Girdle What did Gawain promise the Green Knight in the first part that he has to follow through on?

Focus Questions 3 In lines 209 -217 what does Gawain’s refusal of gifts suggest about his character? How does this relate to his code? In lines 227 -236 why is Gawain distressed (upset) when he learns about the sash’s magical powers? Why does he accept it if he is upset by it? In lines 271 -275 why does the Green Knight stop his axe falling a second time? What has Gawain proven about himself even if he doesn’t believe he is the smartest or strongest knight?

Focus Questions 4 In lines 357 -365 what ideals of Chivalry does Gawain believe he has betrayed? The Green Knight is quick to forgive and reminds Gawain of his code, how does this resemble what I (Mr. Arenas) do? What is the purpose of this story do you think?

Sir Gawain and the Code of Chivalry Table Activity In the first table, work with a partner to find evidence that Sir Gawain SUCCEEDS in following the code of chivalry. Fill in at least one row with your partner, using the example as a guide. Then, take turns sharing out with others in your group. As a whole group, complete the table. In the second table, repeat the process but find evidence that Sir Gawain FAILS to follow the code of chivalry.

Example Promise from the Code of Chivalry #10 To guard the honor of fellow knights Followed Failed After the Green Knight makes fun of the knights for not taking his challenge, Sir Gawain steps up and accepts on their behalf. (119) When Gawain admits he used the sash he feels he failed standing up for his fellow knights and let them down. (360)

Your Topic Sentence In the medieval romance Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, Sir Gawain _________ the code of chivalry, suggesting/implying that a true knight must ___________________.