1. Sir Gawain and the Green Knight
An Arthurian Romance

2. The quest myth: The archetypal pattern
Story pattern = myth Universal significance = archetype
Physical journey (quest): the myth or story
Spiritual or psychic journey: archetype
Our journey as well
Monsters and evils he faces are our internal demons
His skills and attributes=exaggerated manifestations of what society values
The pattern of the quest myth:
Birth – noble, supernatural, divine, royal
Separation – The hero breaks away or departs his world or place in the world.
The Journey – The hero faces trials and tribulations in his quest to find what he seeks.
The Return home – The hero returns with the reward; Returns enlightened and whole.

3. Endless Cycle Pentangle, Celtic Knot Poem:
Both have no beginning
or ending (5 of 5)
Poem:
Civilizations rise & fall.
Yule to Yule (Year + 1 day)
Challenge>Quest>Game>Return

4. Gawain’s Preparations
Shield
Fives Fives
Senses
Fingers
Wounds of Christ
Joys of Mary
Knightly Virtues
Generosity, chastity, brotherhood, chivalry, piety
(Free-giving, purity, friendship, courtesy, compassion)

5. Journey North Knight Errant (wandering, lost) Obstacles
Darkness of forest (sin & error)
Spiritual Guide (Mentor)
Court (similarities with Camelot)
Naming
Courtly Love

6. The Pentangle