Sir Gawain and Religion
In the days of King Arthur, religion was one of the most important aspects of life. Literature from this period reflects that strong faith and reliance that people had in God. People looked to God for answers, protection, and comfort. To these people, God worked in mysterious ways, so it was not hard for someone to turn away from God. Faith test were given to knights and people of the liking to see if they truly were devoted to God. Such a test is given to Sir Gawain in "Sir Gawain and the Green Knight." Gawain is a good, faithful knight who is sent on a journey in the name of God. Gawain's faith in God changes from setting to setting, as new challenges are placed before Gawain. God is first mentioned in line 370 when the King gives Gawain God's blessing, and asking that he be "strong in spirit and stout in sinew." Gawain is given a mission to seek out the Green Knight, which he accepts. "But I am bound to bear the blow and must be gone tomorrow to seek the gallant in green, as God sees fit to guide me." (548-549).This sets the tone for this strong faith in the beginning of the story. Gawain believes that he can do anything with the assistance of God. Prior to his departure, all the people said,
The God Gawain believes in grants forgiveness to those who ask for it. The Green Knight then reveals his true identity Gawain. The church could not have been so powerful without all of the devout followers it had. The Green Knight tells Gawain that the green girdle was obtained from the knight's wife. Gawain sees himself as a good Christian knight, although he does not always go along with what his faith says. Gawain takes interest in the help of the girdle, even though he has no reason to doubt God's assistance. Gawain's acceptance of the girdle is a sign oh him failing his test of faith. " This hints even more that God will be set to protect Gawain while he is in danger, providing him with comfort and safety. This restores Gawain's faith in his God. The noble knight travels until Christmas Eve, when he prays to Mary for a place for shelter and prayer.
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