Fluent Essays

OUTLINE FOR YOUR ESSAY WHAT ARE MY OPTIONS? YOU HAVE SOME GREAT ONES! OPTION ONE Watch one of the following films: First Knight (1995). This is a story of the romance between Lancelot and Guinevere. Persuasion (1995 or 2007 version). This is a film adaptation of a classic by Jane Austen. The Green Knight. (2021)You can rent this on You Tube, or see it in the Theaters. Your choice, your focus  You can focus on forbidden love, platonic love, unrequited love, or familial love. In the film you chose, examine how the theme of love is intertwined with another theme, such as marriage, family, desire, social class, and friendship. Analyze three relationships in the film to show how the two themes are intertwined. Ues this thesis template:  In the film __________, the theme of love is intertwined with the theme of ____, as demonstrated by the relationships of [first pair], [second pair], and [third pair]. Download and complete the outline form for Option 1. First knight First Knight “The story is yet another retelling of the love triangle of Camelot. It centers on Guinevere, Lady of Leonesse, whose lands are under attack from the evil Malagant. She determines to marry King Arthur, whose Camelot is legend, for two reasons: Because she can love him, and because he can protect Leonesse. But as events are unfolding, she meets the young and footloose Lancelot, who saves her from a savage attack in the woods, and goes right on saving her, while falling in love with her, throughout the movie.” film critic Roger Ebert ( https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/persuasion-1995) Be very specific in your original thesis—this is the framework for your essay! This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA Student example for Option One I am analyzing the film The First Knight that is set in mythical early Medieval times in Camelot. I am analyzing the following characters in detail: 1.Lady Guinevere of Leonesse, 2. Lancelot a brave man who isn’t a knight but a true and loyal fighter at heart, 3. King Arthur of Camelot and 4. The bad Malagant who was a knight at the round table but became jealous and wanted Leonesse for himself.The two major themes I found in the movie were adventure and romance; it is fascinating to look at these two themes because we see a triangle of love unfold between the main characters. Lancelot saves Guinevere and falls in love with her. The love between King Arthur and Guinevere, who loves the King Arthur for his courage, justice, and keeping peace; all these facets of the film maintain the suspense. Thesis Statement :In the film The first Knight, the theme of love is intertwined with the themes of romance, and adventure, as demonstrated by the relationships of King Arthur and Lady Guinevere, Lady Guinevere and Lancelot, and Malagant and his men. Let the characters speak for themselves! This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA Student example of lines from the film to back up her claims The theme of romance relates to the first set of characters because Lady Guinevere chooses to be wed even though she knows she would no longer be free to be her own person, and King Arthur acknowledges that sacrifice showing how he would love her unconditionally and Guinevere understand that he would keep her people safe regardless of their engagement which makes her love him even more. Supporting quote/example from the film to support this point:“Arthur: Do you want to marry me? Guinevere: My Lord.. Arthur:You don’t have to marry me because your father wanted it or because your country needs it, Camelot will protect Leonesse whether you marry me or not. Guinevere: Thank you, you don’t know what it means to me to hear you say that. Arthur: So, you want to be released from this engagement? Guinevere: No, I want to marry you, not your crown, or your army, or your golden city, just you”. Notice the treatment of dialog: Each character has his/her own line. First Knight how to cite lines from a film in APA format “You risked your life for another. There is no greater love.” “May God grant us the wisdom to discover right, the will to choose it, and the strength to make it endure.” King Arthur Citation for lines in-text (that is, within the outline/essay) Just identify the Speaker in your introduction, then end your dialog like this: (Producer’s last name, Year). For the Reference page at the end, do this: Director, D. D. (Director). (Date of publication). Title of motion picture [Film]. Production company. Persuasion Persuasion PERSUASION “The novels of Jane Austen are filled with conversation - with chatter, gossip, speculation and homily. But in Persuasion, the central character scarcely speaks during some of the most important scenes. Anne Elliot, having arrived at the advanced age of 27 still a spinster, is more or less denied a role in the rigid social hierarchy of her time. She is the most intelligent of women, and the only one in her family with common sense, but in her circle, marriage conveys a license to talk in society, and she has not the license.” Overview from Roger Ebert https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/persuasion-1995 PERSUASION--PLOT “We know what we want to happen - what must happen, given the conventions of the time and the inclinations of Jane Austen. We know they must be married and redress the great wrong of eight years before. But everything conspires to prevent that. Annes silly cousin William also seems to be a suitor for her hand - and to Frederick, not easy in the ways of romance, it seems of course that he must win it. One of the best scenes in the movie takes place in a tea shop in Bath, where Anne and Frederick at last meet, by chance, and it appears he will have his chance to walk her home, before William appears, and Frederick withdraws without a fight.” Overview from Roger Ebert https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/persuasion-1995 Student Example--Introduction This essay uses characters from the film Persuasion (1995) to discuss the themes of love and class. The characters are Anne Elliot and Frederick Wentworth who are the major characters,as well as Louisa Musgrove, and Mr. Elliot. Love and class are themes that are common in many British novels—literary works that try to dig deeper into each character’s motivations and to determine where those actions lead them in their lives. Student Example--Conclusion The themes of class and love are illustrated in the film Persuasion (1995) as being interdependent. Anne is obliged to turn Wentworth away due to his status but later takes him back when he comes back wealthy. Louisa tries to get Wentworth to marry her because he is wealthy even when she has not interacted enough with him on any meaningful level. THE GREEN KNIGHT A 2021 film version of our text. Differences abound! The Green Knight is manifested (by Gawain’s mother) to challenge Gawain to a quest in order to fulfill his ambition to be a Knight. THE GREEN KNIGHT These challenges take the form of encounters with a scavenger, an ancient woman who looks for her head, and ultimately how Gawain will withstand the seduction of a woman who looks uncannily like Essel, his peasant girl. THE GREEN KNIGHT Towards the end of the movie, he has a vision of his fate as King. This vision scares him so much, he resolves not to cheat in his encounter with the Green knight, and removes the girdle. THE GREEN KNIGHT You must choose the theme of love, but also another theme—perhaps honor, loyalty, courage, as examples. Closely examine his character both the good and the bad! THE GREEN KNIGHT Make sure to include pertinent lines from the film! Option Two Using the assigned readings only, write a comparison or contrast essay about two of the corresponding characters in the table below. You will choose three of the points of comparison from the pool below as your points of comparison or contrast. WHAT IS YOUR POINT?    You will be using a point-by-point style of comparison, and you will have two choices for your thesis statement:   While some differences between __________ and __________ (names of characters in the pairing you chose) are evident, they are similar in the aspects of __________, __________, and __________ (you will determine three points of comparison from the pool, and those will become the topics of your three body paragraphs).   While some similarities between  __________ and __________ (names of characters in the pairing you chose) are evident, they are different in the aspects of __________, __________, and __________ (you will determine three points of comparison from the pool, and those will become the topics of your three body paragraphs). Choose carefully! Choose one of the following pairings: Choose three of the following points of comparison: 1. Lancelot and Arthur A. chivalry 2. Gawain and Arthur B. loyalty 3.  Jack and Algernon C. honesty 4. Cecily and Gwendolen D. resourcefulness E. wit   F. faith in others   G. courage   H. fairness The Importance of Being Earnest This is a really delightful film of Wilde’s play! This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC Examples of Great Lines  My ideal has always been to love someone of the name of Ernest. There is something in that name that inspires absolute confidence. -Gwendolyn. I pity any woman who is married to a man called John. She would probably never be allowed to know the entrancing pleasure of a single moment’s solitude. -Gwendolyn. 18. All women become like their mothers. That is their tragedy. No man does. That is his. -Algernon. More examples of great lines Relations are simply a tedious pack of people, who haven’t got the remotest knowledge of how to live, nor the smallest instinct about when to die. -Algernon . I hate people who are not serious about meals. It is so shallow of them. -Jack. I never travel without my diary. One should always have something sensational to read in the train. -Gwendolyn. Cecily: When I see a spade I call it a spade. Gwendolen: I am glad to say that I have never seen a spade. It is obvious that our social spheres have been widely different. Lady Bracknell sums up the Theme Algernon is an extremely, I may almost say an ostentatiously, eligible young man. He has nothing, but he looks everything. -Lady Bracknell. Choose your characters carefully… Once you have chosen your pair of characters, this is what I would do: 1. This is a comparison/contrast essay, therefore, you have to measure each character’s actions and consequences as either similar or different. 2. Bear in mind that there should be a result at the end of your outline/essay! Make a list! In one column, similarities In the other column, differences Make sure you include details so that you have a basis for comparison. Student Example Introduction and Thesis Sir Thomas Mallory paints a great picture of the relationship between the two characters, King Arthur, and Sir Gawain. In Morte Darthur, we are reading about the trials and tribulations between these two men. King Arthur, king of the utopian kingdom, Camelot, and Sir Gawain, one of the many knights of the round table, and the nephew to the king. It is important that we pay close attention to the dynamic relationship between these two people, since they endure many problems along the way. They are both loved by the other, but they both face betrayal in the end. Thesis Statement.”While some similarities between Arthur and Gawain are evident, they are different in the aspects of fairness, faith in others, and courage.” Example of Lancelot and Arthur In our Norton text, (the introduction to Morte Darthur), the following observation is made of Lancelot: “But Lancelot is compromised by his fatal liaison with Arthur’s Queen, and torn between the incompatible loyalties that bind him as an honorable knight, on the one hand, to his lord Arthur and, on the other to his lady Guinevere.” (pps. 338-339). King Arthur and Sir Gawain are both very similar but hold manydifferences. They seem to have different morals; the way they showfairness to the Queen are quite evident. Gawain stands by the Queen andwishes she not be burned at the stake; on the other hand, Arthur does nothesitate to send another knight to carry on the act. Gawain seems to alwayssee the good in others, as he finds it hard to think Lancelot a “traitor” forwhat he has done and still remembers a time when he saved the King andthe Queen. Arthur has a hard time trusting an actual traitor, a knight of theround table and his very own son. We later realize that he had every right reader with asense of closureto be weary. Lastly, the courage in both characters are shown in acts ofrage and determination; Gawain finds the courage to gather an armyalongside Arthur to finally bring down Lancelot. Arthur has thedetermination to defeat his enemy that was jeopardizing his kingdom.These two characters fought hard side by side, even with their difference,were they so very similar; both strong-willed men destined to do and This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND Le Morte dArthur BOOK XX CHAPTERS I-IV “The Conspiracy Against Lancelot and Guinevere” CHAPTER I How Sir Agravaine and Sir Mordred were busy upon Sir Gawaine for to disclose the love between Sir Launcelot and Queen Guenever IN May when every lusty heart flourisheth and bourgeoneth, for as the season is lusty to behold and comfortable, so man and woman rejoice and gladden of summer coming with his fresh flowers: for winter with his rough winds and blasts causeth a lusty man and woman to cower and sit fast by the fire. So in this season, as in the month of May, it befell a great anger and unhap that stinted not till the flower of chivalry of all the world was destroyed and slain; and all was long upon two unhappy knights the which were named Agravaine and Sir Mordred, that were brethren unto Sir Gawaine. For this Sir Agravaine and Sir Mordred had ever a privy hate unto the queen Dame Guenever and to Sir Launcelot, and daily and nightly they ever watched upon Sir Launcelot. So it mishapped, Sir Gawaine and all his brethren were in King Arthurs chamber; and then Sir Agravaine said thus openly, and not in no counsel, that many knights might hear it: I marvel that we all be not ashamed both to see and to know how Sir Launcelot lieth daily and nightly by the queen, and all we know it so; and it is shamefully suffered of us all, that we all should suffer so noble a king as King Arthur is so to be shamed. Then spake Sir Gawaine, and said: Brother Sir Agravaine, I pray you and charge you move no such matters no more afore me, for wit you well, said Sir Gawaine, I will not be of your counsel. So God me help, said Sir Gaheris and Sir Gareth, we will not be knowing, brother Agravaine, of your deeds. Then will I, said Sir Mordred. I lieve well that, said Sir Gawaine, for ever unto all unhappiness, brother Sir Mordred, thereto will ye grant; and I would that ye left all this, and made you not so busy, for I know, said Sir Gawaine, what will fall of it. Fall of it what fall may, said Sir Agravaine, I will disclose it to the king. Not by my counsel, said Sir Gawaine, for an there rise war and wrack betwixt Sir Launcelot and us, wit you well brother, there will many kings and great lords hold with Sir Launcelot. Also, brother Sir Agravaine, said Sir Gawaine, ye must remember how ofttimes Sir Launcelot hath rescued the king and the queen; and the best of us all had been full cold at the heart-root had not Sir Launcelot been better than we, and that hath he proved himself full oft. And as for my part, said Sir Gawaine, I will never be against Sir Launcelot for one days deed, when he rescued me from King Carados of the Dolorous Tower, and slew him, and saved my life. Also, brother Sir Agravaine and Sir Mordred, in like wise Sir Launcelot rescued you both, and threescore and two, from Sir Turquin. Methinketh brother, such kind deeds and kindness should be remembered. Do as ye list, said Sir Agravaine, for I will lain it no longer. With these words came to them King Arthur. Now brother, stint your noise, said Sir Gawaine. We will not, said Sir Agravaine and Sir Mordred. Will ye so? said Sir Gawaine; then God speed you, for I will not hear your tales ne be of your counsel. No more will I, said Sir Gareth and Sir Gaheris, for we will never say evil by that man; for because, said Sir Gareth, Sir Launcelot made me knight, by no manner owe I to say ill of him: and therewithal they three departed, making great dole. Alas, said Sir Gawaine and Sir Gareth, now is this realm wholly mischieved, and the noble fellowship of the Round Table shall be disparpled: so they departed. CHAPTER II How Sir Agravaine disclosed their love to King Arthur, and how King Arthur gave them licence to take him AND then Sir Arthur asked them what noise they made. My lord, said Agravaine, I shall tell you that I may keep no longer. Here is I, and my brother Sir Mordred, brake unto my brothers Sir Gawaine, Sir Gaheris, and to Sir Gareth, how this we know all, that Sir Launcelot holdeth your queen, and hath done long; and we be your sisters sons, and we may suffer it no longer, and all we wot that ye should be above Sir Launcelot; and ye are the king that made him knight, and therefore we will prove it, that he is a traitor to your person. If it be so, said Sir Arthur, wit you well he is none other, but I would be loath to begin such a thing but I might have proofs upon it; for Sir Launcelot is an hardy knight, and all ye know he is the best knight among us all; and but if he be taken with the deed, he will fight with him that bringeth up the noise, and I know no knight that is able to match him. Therefore an it be sooth as ye say, I would he were taken with the deed. For as the French book saith, the king was full loath thereto, that any noise should be upon Sir Launcelot and his queen; for the king had a deeming, but he would not hear of it, for Sir Launcelot had done so much for him and the queen so many times, that wit ye well the king loved him passingly well. My lord, said Sir Agravaine, ye shall ride to-morn a-hunting, and doubt ye not Sir Launcelot will not go with you. Then when it draweth toward night, ye may send the queen word that ye will lie out all that night, and so may ye send for your cooks, and then upon pain of death we shall take him that night with the queen, and outher we shall bring him to you dead or quick. I will well, said the king; then I counsel you, said the king, take with you sure fellowship. Sir, said Agravaine, my brother, Sir Mordred, and I, will take with us twelve knights of the Round Table. Beware, said King Arthur, for I warn you ye shall find him wight. Let us deal, said Sir Agravaine and Sir Mordred. So on the morn King Arthur rode a-hunting, and sent word to the queen that he would be out all that night. Then Sir Agravaine and Sir Mordred gat to them twelve knights, and hid themself in a chamber in the Castle of Carlisle, and these were their names: Sir Colgrevance, Sir Mador de la Porte, Sir Gingaline, Sir Meliot de Logris, Sir Petipase of Winchelsea, Sir Galleron of Galway, Sir Melion of the Mountain, Sir Astamore, Sir Gromore Somir Joure, Sir Curselaine, Sir Florence, Sir Lovel. So these twelve knights were with Sir Mordred and Sir Agravaine, and all they were of Scotland, outher of Sir Gawaines kin, either well-willers to his brethren. So when the night came, Sir Launcelot told Sir Bors how he would go that night and speak with the queen. Sir, said Sir Bors, ye shall not go this night by my counsel. Why? said Sir Launcelot. Sir, said Sir Bors, I dread me ever of Sir Agravaine, that waiteth you daily to do you shame and us all; and never gave my heart against no going, that ever ye went to the queen, so much as now; for I mistrust that the king is out this night from the queen because peradventure he hath lain some watch for you and the queen, and therefore I dread me sore of treason. Have ye no dread, said Sir Launcelot, for I shall go and come again, and make no tarrying. Sir, said Sir Bors, that me repenteth, for I dread me sore that your going out this night shall wrath us all. Fair nephew, said Sir Launcelot, I marvel much why ye say thus, sithen the queen hath sent for me; and wit ye well I will not be so much a coward, but she shall understand I will see her good grace. God speed you well, said Sir Bors, and send you sound and safe again. CHAPTER Ill How Sir Launcelot was espied in the queens chamber, and how Sir Agravaine and Sir Mordred came with twelve knights to slay him SO Sir Launcelot departed, and took his sword under his arm, and so in his mantle that noble knight put himself in great Jeopardy; and so he passed till he came to the queens chamber, and then Sir Launcelot was lightly put into the chamber. And then, as the French book saith, the queen and Launcelot were together. And whether they were abed or at other manner of disports, me list not hereof make no mention, for love that time was not as is now-a-days. But thus as they were together, there came Sir Agravaine and Sir Mordred, with twelve knights with them of the Round Table, and they said with crying voice: Traitor-knight, Sir Launcelot du Lake, now art thou taken. And thus they cried with a loud voice, that all the court might hear it; and they all fourteen were armed at all points as they should fight in a battle. Alas said Queen Guenever, now are we mischieved both Madam, said Sir Launcelot, is there here any armour within your chamber, that I might cover my poor body withal? An if there be any give it me, and I shall soon stint their malice, by the grace of God. Truly, said the queen, I have none armour, shield, sword, nor spear; wherefore I dread me sore our long love is come to a mischievous end, for I hear by their noise there be many noble knights, and well I wot they be surely armed, and against them ye may make no resistance. Wherefore ye are likely to be slain, and then shall I be brent. For an ye might escape them, said the queen, I would not doubt but that ye would rescue me in what danger that ever I stood in. Alas, said Sir Launcelot, in all my life thus was I never bestead, that I should be thus shamefully slain for lack of mine armour. But ever in one Sir Agravaine and Sir Mordred cried: Traitor-knight, come out of the queens chamber, for wit thou well thou art so beset that thou shalt not escape. O Jesu mercy, said Sir Launcelot, this shameful cry and noise I may not suffer, for better were death at once than thus to endure this pain. Then he took the queen in his arms, and kissed her, and said: Most noble Christian queen, I beseech you as ye have been ever my special good lady, and I at all times your true poor knight unto my power, and as I never failed you in right nor in wrong sithen the first day King Arthur made me knight, that ye will pray for my soul if that I here be slain; for well I am assured that Sir Bors, my nephew, and all the remnant of my kin, with Sir Lavaine and Sir Urre, that they will not fail you to rescue you from the fire; and therefore, mine own lady, recomfort yourself, whatsomever come of me, that ye go with Sir Bors, my nephew, and Sir Urre, and they all will do you all the pleasure that they can or may, that ye shall live like a queen upon my lands. Nay, Launcelot, said the queen, wit thou well I will never live after thy days, but an thou be slain I will take my death as meekly for Jesu Christs sake as ever did any Christian queen. Well, madam, said I-auncelot, sith it is so that the day is come that our love must depart, wit you well I shall sell my life as dear as I may; and a thousandfold, said Sir Launcelot, I am more heavier for you than for myself. And now I had liefer than to be lord of all Christendom, that I had sure armour upon me, that men might speak of my deeds or ever I were slain. Truly, said the queen, I would an it might please God that they would take me and slay me, and suffer you to escape. That shall never be, said Sir Launcelot, God defend me from such a shame, but Jesu be Thou my shield and mine armour! CHAPTER IV How Sir Launcelot slew Sir Colgrevance, and armed him in his harness, and after slew Sir Agravaine, and twelve of his fellows AND therewith Sir Launcelot wrapped his mantle about his arm well and surely; and by then they had gotten a great form out of the hall, and therewithal they rashed at the door. Fair lords, said Sir Launcelot, leave your noise and your rashing, and I shall set open this door, and then may ye do with me what it liketh you. Come off then, said they all, and do it, for it availeth thee not to strive against us all; and therefore let us into this chamber, and we shall save thy life until thou come to King Arthur. Then Launcelot unbarred the door, and with his left hand he held it open a little, so that but one man might come in at once; and so there came striding a good knight, a much man and large, and his name was Colgrevance of Gore, and he with a sword struck at Sir Launcelot mightily; and he put aside the stroke, and gave him such a buffet upon the helmet, that he fell grovelling dead within the chamber door. And then Sir Launcelot with great might drew that dead knight within the chamber door; and Sir Launcelot with help of the queen and her ladies was lightly armed in Sir Colgrevances armour. And ever stood Sir Agravaine and Sir Mordred crying: Traitor-knight, come out of the queens chamber. Leave your noise, said Sir Launcelot unto Sir Agravaine, for wit you well, Sir Agravaine, ye shall not prison me this night; and therefore an ye do by my counsel, go ye all from this chamber door, and make not such crying and such manner of slander as ye do; for I promise you by my knighthood, an ye will depart and make no more noise, I shall as to-morn appear afore you all before the king, and then let it be seen which of you all, outher else ye all, that will accuse me of treason; and there I shall answer you as a knight should, that hither I came to the queen for no manner of mal engin, and that will I prove and make it good upon you with my hands. Fie on thee, traitor, said Sir Agravaine and Sir Mordred, we will have thee maugre thy head, and slay thee if we list; for we let thee wit we have the choice of King Arthur to save thee or to slay thee. Ah sirs, said Sir Launcelot, is there none other grace with you? then keep yourself. So then Sir Launcelot set all open the chamber door, and mightily and knightly he strode in amongst them; and anon at the first buffet he slew Sir Agravaine. And twelve of his fellows after, within a little while after, he laid them cold to the earth, for there was none of the twelve that might stand Sir Launcelot one buffet. Also Sir Launcelot wounded Sir Mordred, and he fled with all his might. And then Sir Launcelot returned again unto the queen, and said: Madam, now wit you well all our true love is brought to an end, for now will King Arthur ever be my foe; and therefore, madam, an it like you that I may have you with me, I shall save you from all manner adventures dangerous. That is not best, said the queen; meseemeth now ye have done so much harm, it will be best ye hold you still with this. And if ye see that as to-morn they will put me unto the death, then may ye rescue me as ye think best. I will well, said Sir Launcelot, for have ye no doubt, while I am living I shall rescue you. And then he kissed her, and either gave other a ring; and so there he left the queen, and went until his lodging. Le Morte dArthur BOOK XX CHAPTERS VIII-X “War Breaks Out Between Arthur and Lancelot” CHAPTER VIII How Sir Launcelot and his kinsmen rescued the queen from the fire, and how he slew many knights THEN said the noble King Arthur to Sir Gawaine: Dear nephew, I pray you make you ready in your best armour, with your brethren, Sir Gaheris and Sir Gareth, to bring my queen to the fire, there to have her judgment and receive the death. Nay, my most noble lord, said Sir Gawaine, that will I never do; for wit you well I will never be in that place where so noble a queen as is my lady, Dame Guenever, shall take a shameful end. For wit you well, said Sir Gawaine, my heart will never serve me to see her die; and it shall never be said that ever I was of your counsel of her death. Then said the king to Sir Gawaine: Suffer your brothers Sir Gaheris and Sir Gareth to be there. My lord, said Sir Gawaine, wit you well they will be loath to be there present, because of many adventures the which be like there to fall, but they are young and full unable to say you nay. Then spake Sir Gaheris, and the good knight Sir Gareth, unto Sir Arthur: Sir, ye may well command us to be there, but wit you well it shall be sore against our will; but an we be there by your strait commandment ye shall plainly hold us there excused: we will be there in peaceable wise, and bear none harness of war upon us. In the name of God, said the king, then make you ready, for she shall soon have her judgment anon. Alas, said Sir Gawaine, that ever I should endure to see this woful day. So Sir Gawaine turned him and wept heartily, and so he went into his chamber; and then the queen was led forth without Carlisle, and there she was despoiled into her smock. And so then her ghostly father was brought to her, to be shriven of her misdeeds. Then was there weeping, and wailing, and wringing of hands, of many lords and ladies, but there were but few in comparison that would bear any armour for to strength the death of the queen. Then was there one that Sir Launcelot had sent unto that place for to espy what time the queen should go unto her death; and anon as he saw the queen despoiled into her smock, and so shriven, then he gave Sir Launcelot warning. Then was there but spurring and plucking up of horses, and right so they came to the fire. And who that stood against them, there were they slain; there might none withstand Sir Launcelot, so all that bare arms and withstood them, there were they slain, full many a noble knight. For there was slain Sir Belliance le Orgulous, Sir Segwarides, Sir Griflet, Sir Brandiles, Sir Aglovale, Sir Tor; Sir Gauter, Sir Gillimer, Sir Reynolds three brethren; Sir Damas, Sir Priamus, Sir Kay the Stranger, Sir Driant, Sir Lambegus, Sir Herminde; Sir Pertilope, Sir Perimones, two brethren that were called the Green Knight and the Red Knight. And so in this rushing and hurling, as Sir Launcelot thrang here and there, it mishapped him to slay Gaheris and Sir Gareth, the noble knight, for they were unarmed and unware. For as the French book saith, Sir Launcelot smote Sir Gareth and Sir Gaheris upon the brain-pans, wherethrough they were slain in the field; howbeit in very truth Sir Launcelot saw them not, and so were they found dead among the thickest of the press. Then when Sir Launcelot had thus done, and slain and put to flight all that would withstand him, then he rode straight unto Dame Guenever, and made a kirtle and a gown to be cast upon her; and then he made her to be set behind him, and prayed her to be of good cheer. Wit you well the queen was glad that she was escaped from the death. And then she thanked God and Sir Launcelot; and so he rode his way with the queen, as the French book saith, unto Joyous Gard, and there he kept her as a noble knight should do; and many great lords and some kings sent Sir Launcelot many good knights, and many noble knights drew unto Sir Launcelot. When this was known openly, that King Arthur and Sir Launcelot were at debate, many knights were glad of their debate, and many were full heavy of their debate. CHAPTER IX Of the sorrow and lamentation of King Arthur for the death of his nephews and other good knights, and also for the queen, his wife SO turn we again unto King Arthur, that when it was told him how and in what manner of wise the queen was taken away from the fire, and when he heard of the death of his noble knights, and in especial of Sir Gaheris and Sir Gareths death, then the king swooned for pure sorrow. And when he awoke of his swoon, then he said: Alas, that ever I bare crown upon my head! for now have I lost the fairest fellowship of noble knights that ever held Christian king together. Alas, my good knights be slain away from me: now within these two days I have lost forty knights, and also the noble fellowship of Sir Launcelot and his blood, for now I may never hold them together no more with my worship. Alas that ever this war began. Now fair fellows, said the king, I charge you that no man tell Sir Gawaine of the death of his two brethren; for I am sure, said the king, when Sir Gawaine heareth tell that Sir Gareth is dead he will go nigh out of his mind. Mercy Jesu, said the king, why slew he Sir Gareth and Sir Gaheris, for I dare say as for Sir Gareth he loved Sir Launcelot above all men earthly. That is truth, said some knights, but they were slain in the hurtling as Sir Launcelot thrang in the thick of the press; and as they were unarmed he smote them and wist not whom that he smote, and so unhappily they were slain. The death of them, said Arthur, will cause the greatest mortal war that ever was; I am sure, wist Sir Gawaine that Sir Gareth were slain, I should never have rest of him till I had destroyed Sir Launcelots kin and himself both, outher else he to destroy me. And therefore, said the king, wit you well my heart was never so heavy as it is now, and much more I am sorrier for my good knights loss than for the loss of my fair queen; for queens I might have enow, but such a fellowship of good knights shall never be together in no company. And now I dare say, said King Arthur, there was never Christian king held such a fellowship together; and alas that ever Sir Launcelot and I should be at debate. Ah Agravaine, Agravaine, said the king, Jesu forgive it thy soul, for thine evil will, that thou and thy brother Sir Mordred hadst unto Sir Launcelot, hath caused all this sorrow: and ever among these complaints the king wept and swooned. Then there came one unto Sir Gawaine, and told him how the queen was led away with Sir Launcelot, and nigh a twenty-four knights slain. O Jesu defend my brethren, said Sir Gawaine, for full well wist I that Sir Launcelot would rescue her, outher else he would die in that field; and to say the truth he had not been a man of worship had he not rescued the queen that day, insomuch she should have been brent for his sake. And as in that, said Sir Gawaine, he hath done but knightly, and as I would have done myself an I had stood in like case. But where are my brethren? said Sir Gawaine, I marvel I hear not of them. Truly, said that man, Sir Gareth and Sir Gaheris be slain. Jesu defend, said Sir Gawaine, for all the world I would not that they were slain, and in especial my good brother, Sir Gareth. Sir, said the man, he is slain, and that is great pity. Who slew him? said Sir Gawaine. Sir, said the man, Launcelot slew them both. That may I not believe, said Sir Gawaine, that ever he slew my brother, Sir Gareth; for I dare say my brother Gareth loved him better than me, and all his brethren, and the king both. Also I dare say, an Sir Launcelot had desired my brother Sir Gareth, with him he would have been with him against the king and us all, and therefore I may never believe that Sir Launcelot slew my brother. Sir, said this man, it is noised that he slew him. CHAPTER X How King Arthur at the request of Sir Gawaine concluded to make war against Sir Launcelot, and laid siege to his castle called Joyous Gard ALAS, said Sir Gawaine, now is my joy gone. And then he fell down and swooned, and long he lay there as he had been dead. And then, when he arose of his swoon, he cried out sorrowfully, and said: Alas! And right so Sir Gawaine ran to the king, crying and weeping: O King Arthur, mine uncle, my good brother Sir Gareth is slain, and so is my brother Sir Gaheris, the which were two noble knights. Then the king wept, and he both; and so they fell a-swooning. And when they were revived then spake Sir Gawaine: Sir, I will go see my brother, Sir Gareth. Ye may not see him, said the king, for I caused him to be interred, and Sir Gaheris both; for I well understood that ye would make over-much sorrow, and the sight of Sir Gareth should have caused your double sorrow. Alas, my lord, said Sir Gawaine, how slew he my brother, Sir Gareth? Mine own good lord I pray you tell me. Truly, said the king, I shall tell you how it is told me, Sir Launcelot slew him and Sir Gaheris both. Alas, said Sir Gawaine, they bare none arms against him, neither of them both. I wot not how it was, said the king, but as it is said, Sir Launcelot slew them both in the thickest of the press and knew them not; and therefore let us shape a remedy for to revenge their deaths. My king, my lord, and mine uncle, said Sir Gawaine, wit you well now I shall make you a promise that I shall hold by my knighthood, that from this day I shall never fail Sir Launcelot until the one of us have slain the other. And therefore I require you, my lord and king, dress you to the war, for wit you well I will be revenged upon Sir Launcelot; and therefore, as ye will have my service and my love, now haste you thereto, and assay your friends. For I promise unto God, said Sir Gawaine, for the death of my brother, Sir Gareth, I shall seek Sir Launcelot throughout seven kings realms, but I shall slay him or else he shall slay me. Ye shall not need to seek him so far, said the king, for as I hear say, Sir Launcelot will abide me and you in the Joyous Gard; and much people draweth unto him, as I hear say. That may I believe, said Sir Gawaine; but my lord, he said, assay your friends, and I will assay mine. It shall be done, said the king, and as I suppose I shall be big enough to draw him out of the biggest tower of his castle. So then the king sent letters and writs throughout all England, both in the length and the breadth, for to assummon all his knights. And so unto Arthur drew many knights, dukes, and earls, so that he had a great host. And when they were assembled, the king informed them how Sir Launcelot had bereft him his queen. Then the king and all his host made them ready to lay siege about Sir Launcelot, where he lay within Joyous Gard. Malory, T. Morte Darthur. Internet sacred text archive. https://www.sacred- texts.com/ Sir Gawain and The Green Knight translated by Jessie L. Weston In parentheses Publications Middle English Series Cambridge, Ontario 1999 Book One I Since TroyÕs assault and siege, I trow, were over-past, To brands and ashes burnt that stately burg at last, And he, the traitor proved, for treason that he wrought, Was fitly tried and judged,Ñhis fortune elsewhere sought The truest knight on earth, ®neas, with his kin, Who vanquished provinces, and did, as princes, win Of all the Western Isles, the wealth and worth alway; Rich Romulus to Rome full swift hath taÕen his way, First, hath he founded fair that city in his pride To which he gave his name, it bears it to this tide; Ticius doth dwellings found, turning to Tuscany, And Langobard, a race raised up in, Lombardy. But Felix Brutus sailed full far, oÕer the French flood, And on its banks so broad founded Britain, the good, in bliss; Where war nor wonder fail And neÕer have done, ywis, Nor shall both bliss and bale their shifting chances miss. II And when that baron bold had Britain made, I trow, Bold men were bred therein, who loved strife well enow, And many a war they waged in those good days of yoreÑ 2 Of marvels stern and strange, in this land many more Have chanced than otherwhere, since that same time, I weenÑ But of all kings who eÕer oÕer Britain lords have been, Fairest was Arthur all, and boldest, so men tell; Therefore I think to shew a venture that befell In his time, which some men for a sheer wonder hold, And strange above all tales that be of Arthur told. If ye will list this lay a little while, in sooth, IÕll tell ye as I heard it told in town for truth with tongueÑ As it doth stand, to wit, In story stiff and strong, In letters fairly writ, The land hath known it long. III At Camelot lay the King, all on a Christmas-tide, With many a lovely lord, and gallant knight beside, And of the Table Round did the rich brotherhood High revel hold aright, and mirthful was their mood: Oft-times on tourney bent those gallants sought the field, And gentle knights in joust would shiver spear and shield; Anon would seek the court for sport and carol gayÑ For fifteen days full told the feast was held alway, With all the meat and mirth that men might well devise, Right glorious was the glee that rang in riotous wise. Glad clamour through the day, dancing throughout the night; Good luck throughout the hall and chambers well bedight, Had lords and ladies fair, each one as pleased him best, With all of this worldÕs weal they dwelt, those gallant guests; For Christ no braver knights had faced or toil or strife, No fairer ladies eÕer had drawn the breath of life, And he, the comeliest king that eÕer held court, forsooth, For all this goodly folk were eÕen in their first youth, and still 3 The happiest under heaven, A king of stalwart will, ÕT were hard with them to even Another host on hill! IV So young the New Year was, methinks it just was born, Double upon the dais they served the meat that morn; Into the hall he came, with all his knights, the King, EÕen as the chapel choir to end the mass did sing. Loud rang the voice of clerk and cantor there aloft, ÒNowell, Nowell!Ó they sang, and cried the word full oft. And sithen forth they run for handsel fair and free Their New YearÕs gifts they pray, or give them readily. And then about the gifts they make debate enow, And ladies laugh full loud, thoÕ they have lost, I trow! And this I rede ye well, not wroth was he who won!Ñ And all this mirth they made till meal-time cameÑanon The board was set, they washed, and then in order meet The noblest aye above, each gallant took his seat. When Gaynore, gayly clad, stepped forth among them all, Upon the royal dais, high in the midmost hall. Sendal swept at her side, and eke above her head A tapestry of Tars, and choice Toulouse outspread, And all embroidered fair, and set with gems so gay That might be proved of price, an ye their worth would pay one day; Right fair she was, the queen, With eyes of shining grey, That fairer he had seen No man might soothly say! 4 V Arthur, he would not eat till all were served with food, Glad of his gladness he, somewhat of child-like mood; A changeful life he loved, he liked it not a whit, Either oÕer-long to lie, or eÕen oÕer-long to sit, So chafed his youthful blood, and eke his busy brain. Also a custom good, to which the King was fainÑ ThroÕ valour Õstablished fastÑthat never would he eat On such high holiday ere yet adventure meet Were told unto his earÑor wondrous tale enow, Or else some marvel great that he might well allowÑ Tales of his fatherÕs days, of arms, of emprise high,Ñ Or eÕen some knight besought anotherÕs skill to try, To join with him in joust, in jeopardy to lay Life against life, each one, on hap of knightly play. As Fortune them might aidÑin quest of honour fairÑ This was his custom good when as in court he were At each high holiday, among his courtiers there in hall, Fair-faced, and free of fear, He sitteth oÕer them all, Right keen in that New Year, And maketh mirth withal. VI Thus in his place he stands, the young and gallant king, Before the royal board, talking of many a thing. There good Gawain, gay clad, beside Gaynore doth sit, Agravain Òdure main,Ó beyond her as is fit; (Both the KingÕs sisterÕs sons, and knights of valiant moodÑ) High at the table sits Baldwin the Bishop good, And Ywain, UrienÕs son, doth with the Bishop eatÑ These on the da�s are served, in seemly wise, and meet. Full many a gallant knight sits at the board below; 5 See where the first course comes, while loud the trumpets blow! With many a banner bright that gaily waves thereby, And royal roll of drums, and pipes that shrill on high. Wild warblings waken there, and sweet notes rise and fall, Till many a heart swelled high within that castle hall! Dainties they bring therewith, and meats both choice and rareÑ Such plenty of fresh food, so many dishes bear, They scarce might find a place to set, the folk before, The silver vessels all that savoury messes bore, on cloth, The guests they help themselves, Thereto they be not loth, Each twain had dishes twelve, Good beer, and red wine both. VII Now of their service good I think no more to say, For each man well may wot no lack was there that day. Noise that to them was new methinks now drew anear Such as each man in hall were ever fain to hear, For scarce the joyful sounds unto an end were brought, And scarce had the first course been fitly served at court, When through the hall door rushed a champion, fierce and fell, Highest in stature he, of all on earth who dwell! From neck to waist so square, and eke so thickly set, His loins and limbs alike, so long they were, and great, Half giant upon earth, I hold him to have been, In every way of men the tallest he, I weenÑ The merriest in his might that eÕer a joust might ride, Sternly his body framed in back, and breast, and side, Belly and waist alike were fitly formed, and small, EÕen so his features fair were sharply cut withal, and clean, Men marvelled at his hue, So was his semblance seen, 6 He fared as one on feud, And overall was green! VIII All green bedight that knight, and green his garments fair A narrow coat that clung straight to his side he ware, A mantle plain above, lined on the inner side With costly fur and fair, set on good cloth and wide, So sleek, and bright in hueÑtherewith his hood was gay Which from his head was doffed, and on his shoulders lay. Full tightly drawn his hose, all of the self-same green, Well clasped about his calfÑthere-under spurs full keen Of gold on silken lace, all striped in fashion bright, That dangled beneath his legsÑso rode that gallant knight. His vesture, verily, was green as grass doth grow, The barring of his belt, the blithe stones set arow, That decked in richest wise his raiment fine and fair, Himself, his saddle-bow, in silken broideries rare, ÕT were hard to tell the half, so cunning was the wise In which Õt was broidered all with birds, and eke with flies! Decked was the horseÕs neck, and decked the crupper bold, With gauds so gay of green, the centre set with gold. And every harness boss was all enamelled green, The stirrups where he stood were of the self same sheen, The saddle-bow behind, the girths so long and fair, They gleamed and glittered all with green stones rich and rare, The very steed beneath the self same semblance ware, he rides A green horse great and tall; A steed full stiff to guide, In broidered bridle all He worthily bestrides! 7 IX Right gaily was the knight bedecked, all green his weed, The hair upon his head, the mane of his good steed, Fair floating locks enfold his shoulders broad and strong, Great as a bush the beard that on his breast low hung, And, with his goodly hair that hung down from his head, A covering round his arms, above his elbows, spread. Laced were his arms below, eÕen in the self-same way As a kingÕs cap-a dos, that clasps his neck alway. The mane of that great steed was well and deftly wrought, Well crisped and combed the hair, with many a knot in-caught. Folded with golden thread about the green so fair, Here lay a twist of gold, and here a coil of hair. In self-same wise the tail and top-most crest were twined, A band of brightest green the twain alike did bind, Which, set with precious stones, hung the tailÕs length adown, Then, twisted in a knot, on high the crest did crown. There-from hung many a bell, of burnished gold so bright., Such foal upon the fell, bestridden by such knight, Sure neÕer within that hall before of mortal sight were seen, As lightning gleaming bright So seemed to all his sheen, They deemed that no man might Endure his blows so keen. X Nor helmet on his head, nor hauberk did he wear, Gorget nor breast-plate good, as knights are wont to bear; Nor shaft to smite, nor shield that blows might well withstand, Naught but a holly bough he carried in one hand, (When all the groves be bare then fullest is its green), And in his other hand a huge axe, sharp and sheen, A weapon ill to see, would one its fashion say, 8 The haft, it measured full an ell-yard long alway, The blade of good green steel, and all with gold inlaid, Right sharp and broad the edge, and burnished bright the blade. ÕT was sharpened well to cut, eÕen as a razor good, Right well the steel was set in staff so stiff of wood, And iron bands to bind throughout the length it bare, With cunning work of green all wrought, and graven fair. Twined with a lace that fell in silken loops so soft EÕen at the head, adown the haft Õt was caught full oft With hanging tassells fair that silken threads entwine, And buttons of bright green, all broidered fair and fine. Thus in the great hall door the knight stood, fair and tall, Fearless and free his gaze, he gat him down the hall, Greeting he gave to none, but looked right steadily Toward the royal seat, and quoth, ÒNow where is he, The lord of all this folk? To see him am I fain, And with himself would speak, might I the boon attain!ÓÑ With frown He looked upon the knights, And paced him up and down, Fain would he know aright Who was of most renown! XI Then each man gazed amain, each would that hero see, And each man marvelled much what might the meaning be, That man and horse, alike, of such a hue were seen, Green as the growing grass; and greener still, I ween, EÕen than enamel green on gold that gloweth bright: Then all with one consent drew near unto that knight, A-marvelling fell they all who he might be, ywis, For strange sights had they seen, but none so strange as this! The folk, they deemed it well fantasm, or fa�rie, And none among them all dare answer speedily, But all, astonied, gazed, and held them still as stone, 9 Throughout that goodly hall, in silence every one, Their faces changed, as they by sleep were overcome, suddenly, I deem not all for fear, But some for courtesy, They fain would lend an ear And let the King reply. XII Arthur before his da�s beheld this marvel fair, And boldly did he speak for dread, he knew it neÕerÑ And said: Right welcome, Sir, to this my house and hall, Head of this hostel I, and Arthur, men me call. Alight from this thy steed, and linger here, I pray, And what thy will may be hereafter shalt thou say.Ó ÒSo help me,Ó quoth the knight, Òthe God who rules oÕer all, I came not here to bide within thy castle wall, The praise of this thy folk throughout the world is told, Thy burg, thy barons all, bravest and best they hold, The stiffest under steel who battle-steed bestride, Wisest and worthiest they, throughout the whole world wide, Proven right well in joust, and all fair knightly play, Renowned for courtesyÑso have I heard men sayÑ And this hath brought me here, eÕen at this Yule-tide fair, For be ye well assured by this green branch I bear That I would pass in peace, and seek no battle hereÑ For an it were my will to ride in warlike gear I have at home an helm, and hauberk good and strong, A shield and shining spear, with blade both sharp and long, And other weapons good, that well a knight beseem, But since I seek no war my weeds are soft, I ween, And if ye be so bold as all men say ye be The favour that I ask ye sure will grant to me of right,Ó Arthur, he was not slow 10 To speak, ÒI trow, Sir Knight, An here thou seekÕst a foe Thou shalt not fail for fight!Ó XIII ÒNay, here I crave no fight, in sooth I say to thee, The knights about thy board but beardless bairns they be, An I were fitly armed, upon this steed so tall, For lack of strength no man might match me in this hall! Therefore within thy court I crave a Christmas jest, ÕT is Yuletide, and New Year, and here be many a guest, If any in this hall himself so hardy hold, So valiant of his hand, of blood and brain so bold, That stroke for counter-stroke with me exchange he dare, I give him of free gift this gisarme rich and fair, This axe of goodly weight, to wield as he see fit, And I will bide his blow, as bare as here I sit. If one will test my words, and be of valiant mood, Then let him swiftly come, and take this weapon good,Ñ Here I renounce my claim, the axe shall be his ownÑ And I will stand his stroke, here, on this floor of stone, That I in turn a blow may deal, that boon alone I pray, Yet respite shall he have A twelvemonth, and a day. Now quickly I thee craveÑ Who now hath aught to say?Ó XIV If erst they were amazed, now stiller sat they all, Both high and low, those knights within King ArthurÕs hall, The knight upon his steed he sat him fast and true, And round about the hall his fierce red eyes he threw, From Õneath his bushy brows, (all green they were in hue,) 11 Twisting his beard he waits to see if none will rise, When no man proffers speech with mocking voice he cries, ÒWhat, is this ArthurÕs house? Is this his gallant band Whose fame hath run abroad through many a realm and land? Where be your vaunted pride? Your conquests, where be they? Your wrath, and fierceness fell, your boastful words alway? Now is the Table Round, its revel and renown, OÕerthrown with but a word from one manÕs mouth alone, Since none dare speak for dread thoÕ neÕer a dint he see.ÑÓ With that he laughed so loud Arthur must sham�d be, And in his face so fair the blood rose ruddily alight, As wind waxed wroth the King And every gallant knight, In words of warlike ring He hailed that man of might. XV And quoth, ÒBy Heaven, Sir Knight, thou speakest foolishly, But what thy folly craves we needs must grant to thee, I trow no knight of mine thy boastful words doth fear, That goodly axe of thine in GodÕs name give me here, And I will give the boon which thou dost here demand!Ó With that he lightly leapt, and caught him by the hand, Then lighted down the knight, before the King he stood, And Arthur, by the haft he gripped that axe so good, And swung it sternly round, as one who thought to smite; Before him on the floor he stood, that stranger knight, Taller by full a head than any in the hall, With stern mien did he stand, and stroked his beard withal, And drew his coat adown, eÕen with unruffled cheer, No more was he dismayed for threats he needs must hear Than at the royal board one bare a cup anear of wine, Gawain from out his place 12 Spake fitting words and fine, Ò I pray thee of thy grace Be this adventure mine!Ó XVI Quoth Gawain to the King, ÒI pray right worthily Thou bid me quit this seat, and take my stand by thee, That so without reproach, I from this board may rise, And that it be not ill in my liege ladyÕs eyes, IÕll to thy counsel come before this royal court, Unfitting do I deem that such a boon be sought, And such a challenge raised in this your goodly hall That thou thyself be fain to answer it withal, While many a valiant knight doth sit beside thee stillÑ I wot there be Õneath Heaven no men of sterner will, Nor braver on the field where men fight as is fitÑ Methinks, the weakest I, the feeblest here of wit, The less loss of my life, if thou the sooth wouldÕst say! Save as thy near of kin no praise were mine alway, No virtue save thy blood I in my body know! Since this be folly all, nor thine to strike this blow, And I have prayed the boon, then grant it unto me, This good court, an I bear myself ungallantly, may blame!Ó Together did they press, Their counsel was the same, To free the King, no less, And give Gawain the game. XVII Then did the King command that gallant knight to rise, And swiftly up he gat in fair and courteous wise, And knelt before his lord, and gripped the axeÕs haft, The King, he loosed his hold, and raised his hand aloft, 13 And blessed him in ChristÕs Name, and bade him in good part To be of courage still, hardy of hand and heart. ÒNow, Nephew, keep thee well,Ó he quoth, Òdeal but one blow, And if thou redÕst him well, in very truth I know The blow that he shall deal thou shalt right well withstand!Ó Gawain strode to the knight, the gisarme in his hand, Right boldly did he bide, no whit abashed, I ween, And frankly to Gawain he quoth, that knight in green, ÒMake we a covenant here, ere yet we further go, And first I ask, Sir Knight, that I thy name may know, I bid thee tell me true, that I assured may beÑÓ ÒIÕ faith,Ó quoth that good knight, ÒGawain, I wot, is he Who giveth thee this blow, be it for good or ill, A twelvemonth hence IÕll take another at thy will, The weapon be thy choice, IÕll crave no other still alive!Ó The other quoth again, ÒGawain, so may I thrive, But I shall take full fain, The dint that thou shalt drive!Ó XVIII ÒBy Christ,Ó quoth the Green Knight, ÒI trow I am full fain The blow that here I craved to take from thee, Gawain, And thou hast well rehearsed, in fashion fair, I trow, The covenant and the boon I prayed the king but now; Save that thou here, Sir Knight, shalt soothly swear to me To seek me out thyself, where eÕer it seemeth thee I may be found on field, and there in turn demand Such dole as thou shalt deal before this goodly band!Ó ÒNow,Ó quoth the good Gawain, Òby Him who fashioned me, I wot not where to seek, nor where thy home shall be, I know thee not, Sir Knight, thy court, nor yet thy name, Teach me thereof the truth, and tell me of that same, And I will use my wit to win me to that goal, 14 And here I give thee troth, and swear it on my soul!Ó ÒNay, in this New YearÕs tide it needs no more, I ween,Ó So to the good Gawain he quoth, that knight in green, ÒSave that I tell thee trueÑwhen I the blow have taÕen, Which thou shalt smartly smiteÑand teach thee here amain Where be my house, my home, and what my name shall be; Then mayÕst thou find thy road, and keep thy pledge with me. But if I waste no speech, thou shalt the better speed, And in thy land mayÕst dwell, nor further seek at need for fight Take thy grim tool to thee, Let see how thou canÕst smite!Ó Quoth Gawain, ÒWillingly,Ó And stroked his axe so bright. XIX The Green Knight on the ground made ready speedily, He bent his head adown, that so his neck were free, His long and lovely locks, across the crown they fell, His bare neck to the nape all men might see right well Gawain, he gripped his axe, and swung it up on high, The left foot on the ground he setteth steadily Upon the neck so bare he let the blade alight, The sharp edge of the axe the bones asunder smiteÑ Sheer throÕ the flesh it smote, the neck was cleft in two, The brown steel on the ground it bit, so strong the blow, The fair head from the neck fell even to the ground, Spurned by the horseÕs hoof, eÕen as it rolled around, The red blood spurted forth, and stained the green so bright, But neÕer for that he failed, nor fell, that stranger knight, Swiftly he started up, on stiff and steady limb, And stretching forth his hand, as all men gaped at him, Grasped at his goodly head, and lift it up again, Then turned him to his steed, and caught the bridle rein, Set foot in stirrup-iron, bestrode the saddle fair, 15 The while he gripped his head eÕen by the flowing hair. He set himself as firm in saddle, so I ween, As naught had ailed him there, thoÕ headless he was seen in hall; He turned his steed about, That corpse, that bled withal, Full many there had doubt Of how the pledge might fall! XX The head, within his hand he held it up a space, Toward the royal da�s, forsooth, he turned the face, The eyelids straight were raised, and looked with glance so clear, Aloud it spake, the mouth, eÕen as ye now may hear; ÒLook, Gawain, thou be swift to speed as thou hast said, And seek, in all good faith, until thy search be sped, EÕen as thou here didst swear, in hearing of these knightsÑ To the Green Chapel come, I charge thee now aright, The blow thou hast deserved, such as was dealt to-day, EÕen on the New YearÕs morn I pledge me to repay, Full many know my name, ÔKnight of the Chapel Green,Õ To find me, shouldÕst thou seek, thou wilt not fail, I ween, Therefore thou needÕst must come, or be for recreant found!Ó With fierce pull at the rein he turned his steed around, His head within his hand, forth from the hall he rode, Beneath his horseÕs hoofs the sparks they flew abroad, No man in all the hall wist where he took his way, Nor whence that knight had come durst any of them say, what then? The King and Gawain there They gazed, and laughed again, Proven it was full fair A marvel unto men! 16 XXI ThoÕ Arthur in his heart might marvel much, I ween, No semblance in his speech of fear or dread was seen Unto the Queen he quoth, in courteous wise, and gay, ÒDear lady, at this tide let naught your heart dismay, Such craft doth well, methinks, to Christmas-time belong, When jests be soothly sought, with laugh and merry song, And when in carols gay our knights and ladies vieÑ Natheless unto my meat IÕll get me presently, I may not soon forget the sight mine eyes have seen!Ó He turned him to Gawain, and quoth with gladsome mien, ÒNow, Sir, hang up thine axe, the blow was soundly sped!Ó ÕT was hung above the dais, on dossel overhead, That all within the hall might look upon it well, And by that token true the tale of wonder tell, Then to the royal board they sat them down, those twain, The King, and the good knight, and men for service fain As to the noblest there with double portion wendÑ With meat and minstrelsy the Yule-tide feast they spend, With joy they pass the day till shades of night descend oÕer land, Now think thee well, Gawain, And fail not to withstand The venture thou wast fain To take unto thine hand! 17 Book Two I Now this first venture fair, befell in the New Year To Arthur, who such feats was ever fain to hear; AlthoÕ his words were few whenas at meat they met; But now to task full stern their hand methinks be set. Right gladly did Gawain begin these games in hall, If heavy be the end, small wonder were withal: A man hath merry mind when he hath drunk amain, Speedy, the year hath sped and cometh not again; Beginnings to their end do all unlike appearÑ The Yuletide passed away; and eke the after year Each season severally after the other sent; When Christmas-tide was past then came the crabb�d Lent, That, changing flesh for fish, doth simpler food provide; The weather of the world with winter then doth chide, The cold no longer clings, the clouds themselves uplift, Shed swift the rain, and warm, the showers of springtide drift, Fall fair upon the field, the flowers all unfold, The grass, and eÕen the groves all green ye may behold. The birds begin to build, and greet, with joyful song, Solace of summer sweet, that followeth ere longÑ On bank The blossoms fair they blow In hedgerow rich and rank; The birds sing loud and low In woodland deep and dank. 18 II After the summer-tide, with gentle winds and soft, When zephyr on the sward and seeds doth breathe full oft, (Full gladsome is the growth waxing therefrom, I ween, Whenas the dewdrops drip from off the leaves so green, Beneath the blissful beams of the bright summer sun)Ñ Then nigheth harvest-tide, hardening the grain anon, With warnings to wax ripe ere come the winter cold, With drought he drives the dust before him on the wold, From off the field it flies, in clouds it riseth high; Winds of the welkin strive with the sun, wrathfully, The leaves fall from the bough, and lie upon the ground, And grey is now the grass that erst all green was found; Ripens and rots the fruit that once was flower gayÑ And thus the year doth turn to many a yesterday, Winter be come again, as needeth not to say the sage; Then, when Saint MichaelÕs moon Be come with winterÕs gage Gawain bethinks him soon Of his dread ventureÕs wage. III Yet till All-HallowsÕ Day with Arthur did he bide, Then for his sake the king a fair feast did provide, Rich was the revel there of the good Table Round, There were both courteous knights and comely ladies found, And many sorrowed sore all for that good knightÕs sakeÑ Yet none the less no sign of aught but mirth they make, ThoÕ joyless all the jests they bandy at that sameÑ With mourning after meat he to his uncle came, And of his journey spake, and openly did say: ÒNow, liege Lord of my life, your leave I fain would pray, 19 Ye know how stands the case, thereof no more IÕll speakÑ Since talk, it mendeth naught, Õt were trifling ease to seek; I to the blow am bound, to-morrow must I fare To seek the Knight in Green, God knoweth how, or where.Ó The best knights in the burg together then they ran, Ywain and Erec there, with many another man, Dodinel le Sauvage; the Duke of Clarence came, Lancelot, Lionel, and Lucain, at that same, Sir Boors, Sir Bedivere, (the twain were men of might,) With Mador de la Port, and many another knight. Courtiers in company nigh to the king they drew, For counselling that knight, much care at heart they knew. In dole so drear their tears in hall together blend To think that good Gawain must on such errand wend Such dolefull dint endure, no more fair blows to spend and freeÑ The knight he made good cheer, He quoth: ÒWhat boots it me? For thoÕ his weird be drear Each man that same must dree.Ó IV He dwelt there all that day, at early dawn besought That men would bring his arms, and all were straightway brought. A carpet on the floor they stretch full fair and tight, Rich was the golden gear that on it glittered bright. The brave man stepped thereon, the steel he handled fair, A doublet dear of Tars they did upon him there, A cunning cap-a-dos, that fitted close and well, All fairly lined throughout, as I have heard it tell. They set the shoes of steel upon the heroÕs feet, And wrapped the legs in greaves, of steel, as fit and meet. The caps that Õlonged thereto polished they were full clean, And knit about the knee with knots of golden sheen. Comely the cuisses were that closed him all about 20 With thongs all tightly tied around his thighs so stout. And then a byrnie bright with burnished steel they bring, Upon a stuff so fair woven with many a ring. And now upon each arm they set the burnished brace With elbow plates so goodÑthe metal gloves they lace; Thus all the goodly gear to shield him was in place that tideÑ Rich surcoat doth he wear, And golden spurs of pride, His sword is girt full fair With silk, upon his side. V When he was fitly armed his harness rich they deem, Nor loop nor latchet small but was with gold a-gleam; Then, harnessed as he was, his Mass he heard straightway, On the high altar there an offering meet did lay. Then, coming to the king, and to the knights at court, From lords and ladies fair lightly his leave besought. They kissed the knight, his soul commending to ChristÕs careÑ Ready was Gringalet, girt with a saddle fair, Gaily it gleamed that day, with fringes all of gold, For this adventure high new nails it bare for old. The bridle barred about, with gold adorn�d …