Sir Gawain Vs Beowulf Research Paper

Heros of Their Time The idea of heroic action and an epic hero have been evolving for many years. Beowulf and Sir Gawain and the Green Knight both have different, but also similar ideas of what it takes to be a hero. The heroic traits they share are loyal to their lords, and they also are both knights. They more or less follow a certain code of honor that they must uphold.The difference of the time period and religion influence has very much so do with it with how they are portrayed as heroes. Beowulf setting was in the early medieval period where religion wasn't as prominent as it was in Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. Religion and social order in their kingdom changed how they were considered heroes. Beowulf and Sir Gawain are the definition …show more content…
Gawain is tested by a women while staying in at the castle because of him being a knight of King Arthur. They were known for their chivalry and how they treated their woman. Which wasn't uncommon in the high middle ages, “Other qualities gradually become part of chivalry: bravery, generosity, honor, graciousness, mercy, and eventually gallantry towards women, which came to be called ‘country love’.” In his case, the fair lady is the wife of the Green Knight. He was confronted by the Green Knight, “The second feint I gave for the morning when you kissed my fair wife and paid me the kisses”. How he reacts to this confrontation is very important to notice because he uses the bible to explain the situation and who is truly at fault, “...be brought to his downfall through the wiles of women. For Adam in this world mislead by one...” During the time, people had a very poor view on women and merely saw them has properties. He also apologized for his sinning and wears the green girdle to symbolize the sin he has committed. He is a hero that takes somewhat ownership to his mistake and realize what he did was wrong in the eyes of God and his fellow