The Theme Of Chivalry In 'Sir Gawain And The Green Knight'

In "Sir Gawain and the Green Knight," the hero's journey enhances the theme of the nature of chivalry. The protagonist, Sir Gawain, is presented as the epitome of a chivalric knight. As he embarks on his journey to confront the Green Knight, he faces a series of trials that test his adherence to the code of chivalry. Through these trials, Gawain learns the true meaning of chivalry - not just outward displays of bravery and honor, but also the internal qualities of humility, honesty, and selflessness. One of the 12 stages of the hero's journey, the "Meeting with the Mentor," plays a particularly important role in Gawain's development as a knight. During this stage, Gawain meets Bertilak, who teaches him about the importance of honesty and the danger of pride.

As the poem states, Gawain hesitated, his heart/ Reached for protection, like a thief for a gem:/ He could come to that chapel, and take that stroke,/ And with this glorious device walk off/ Unharmed (Lines 1855-59, Page 113). In the quoted lines, Gawain is contemplating the idea of breaking his code by taking the girdle from the lady and using it as a magical talisman to protect himself from the Green Knight's axe. He hesitates and his heart reaches for protection, which shows that he is grappling with the conflict between his desire to maintain his code of chivalry and his fear of the Green Knight's supernatural power. The image of a thief reaching for a gem also suggests a sense of guilt or wrongdoing, further emphasizing Gawain's internal