Dynamic Chivalry in Sir Gawain and the Green Knight - Book Report/Review Example

Arthur’s manner of speaking is smooth and dignified. In contrast, the Green Knight’s speech is full of slang and rough phrases. To Arthur’s response he says, “I’m spoiling for no scrap, I swear. Besides, the bodies on these benches are just bum-fluffed bairns” (279-280). Arthur chooses his words carefully, while the Green Knight appears to utter strings of slang without even thinking.In true chivalrous fashion, Arthur accepts the Green Knight’s challenge.

Chivalry required a knight to accept any challenge made to him. Gawain jumps up and offers to accept the challenge in Arthur’s place. This demonstrates that he is also chivalrous since he decides to fight his leader’s battle. He is standing up for the person in authority over him, even though this is not required of him. This demonstrates chivalry by Gawain. Gawain tells the court that he is the “weakest of your warriors and feeblest of wit; loss of my life would be grieved the least” (355-356).

Through his humility, he states that he should take Arthur’s place since Arthur is more important than him. Gawain’s humility and actions demonstrate his adherence to the code of chivalry.The circumstances that cause Gawain to realize he is still human even though he is a knight arise when Gawain enters Gringolet’s castle. The master of the castle makes a pact with Gawain. The master tells Gawain, “what I win in the woods will be yours, and what you gain while I’m gone you will give to me” (1107-1108).