Sir Gawain and the Green Knight

Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Adult | Published in 1397

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Before You Read

Summary

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Character Analysis

Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Tools

Discussion Questions

Essay Topics

Discuss the significance of the Sir Gawain’s Christmas setting in light of its broader themes.

Compare and contrast the pentangle on Gawain’s shield with the green girdle he later wears as a sash. What aspects of Gawain's character does each symbol represent, and how do they reinforce his transformation over the course of the story?

Explore the significance of one of the less prominent colors featured in Sir Gawain (red, gold, blue, etc.). How does its symbolism contribute to the work’s overall meaning?