in a motorcycle accident. He lived a thorough and wonderful life, influencing many people throughout it (Grolier).In Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, the author uses many specific characters to imply the several diverse themes. The first character, also the main character, is Sir Gawain. The unknown author proposes many themes through this one character alone. Sir Gawain is introduced as a Knight of the Round Table in King Authur’s court in Camelot during the fifteen day Christmas and New Year’s celebration. Gawain is the definition of a knight. With his every step, he continuously represents the pinnacle of loyalty, honor, integrity, and chivalry. Though these immortal themes are a part of Gawain, he remains a mortal man. Gawain’s character is as good as it can be, considering the circumstances. Sir Gawain is extremely courteous throughout the poem. He has only two flaws for which he should not be looked down upon. He flinches, knowing of the blow he must receive. He also falls into the temptation of saving his own life. He accepts the green sash but lies to Bercilak about it. He fails to give Bercilak the green sash and only gives him innocent kisses. These flaws only show that Gawain is human and therefore makes mistakes. He lets himself down by falling into these mistakes, which goes to show how high his expectations have always been. The theme of Sir Gawain’s character proves to be righteousness. As Gardner said, “…he is the nephew of Authur himself and Mary’s own” (Gardner 163). He is associated with chastity, the sun god, and Christian morals, all of which are themes that intertwine with righteousness. Sir Gawain basically becomes an adult through the course of the story. He is the ideal knight, maybe not flawless, but no where near sinful (Samuels).In addition to Gawain, Bercilak de Hautdesert, the Green Knight, is introduced during the Christmas celebration in ...
