The Gawain Legend Gawain may have been derived from a pre-Arthurian Welsh hero named Gwalchmai. Gawain was the hero of early versions of the Grail legend and was, in early stories, the owner of the sword Excalibur. Stories about the exploits of Gawain became quite popular in England. In one of these stories, Gawain marries a hag to save the life of King Arthur, only to have her become transformed into a beautiful woman. Gawain is one of the most written about figures in Arthurian legend; hence, his character is also one of the most fluid. He ranges, depending on the source, from a virtuous and perfect embodiment of chivalry to a somewhat philandering low comic character. In the story of the Green Knight, Gawain is portrayed at his most human, as his faults are fully revealed along with his strengths.

The Pearl Poet The only existing copy of Sir Gawain (now in a British Museum) was lost and then rediscovered in Found along with it were poems thought to be by the same writer, titled Pearl, Purity, Patience, and Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. Today the still nameless but renowned poet is referred to simply as “The Pearl Poet.” Composed Sir Gawain in the northwest of England around His sophisticated technique, and his knowledge of French and Latin point to an educated man familiar with the ways of the aristocracy. May have been a clergyman or a cleric.

Romance in Sir Gawain Considered by some to be the best of all medieval romances. It contains all the elements of romance: kings, knights, and supernatural creatures. It also includes the three stages of romance: a dangerous quest, a test of honor and courage, and a return to the point from which the quest began.

Symbolism of the Shield Pentangle==King Solomon’s ring. This was given to King Solomon by the Archangel Michael to give him power over all creatures of evil. Red==color for martyrdom and sacrifice during the Middle Ages Gold==faith, obedience and/or gentility Green==nature; supernatural; protection and failure Center of Star has picture of Mary

Pentangle Meaning of the 5 fives 5 fingers 5 senses = sight, smell, hear, taste, touch 5 wounds of Christ=head, hands x2, feet and side 5 joys=Mary 5 virtures

“The fifth of the five fives followed by this knight were benefice boundless and brotherly love and pure mind and manners, that none might impeach, and compassion most precious—these peerless five. We forged and made fast in him, foremost of men.”