Gawain rode for many miles through unknown country andat every turn he found himself challenged to a fight.He battled almost to the death with fire-breathing dragons,fought with packs of starving wolves,did battle against tribes of wild men who lived in caveshigh up among the crags.And yet, Gawain suffered less from these constant trialsof strength and courage then from the pitiless winter.
The sky was dark with snow and the road as hard as iron.At night he half froze to death and during the daythe rain came down in icy sheets on his cold armour.Often he had to sleep in the open as he passed few dwellingswhere he could ask for shelter.His clothes froze to his skin and the metal of his sword andshield were too cold to touch.Snow piled high in soft white drifts on either side of him and icicleshung from the blackened braches of the trees.
By Christmas Eve, Gawain had almost lost hope.But, the next morning he came upon a castle in the middle of a wood.It was the most magnificent castle Gawain has ever seen,its turrets and battlements gleaming through the bare trees,pennants fluttering gaily from the gilded towers.Gawain called to the keeper of the gate.
Good sir, would you ask the lord of this castle if I mayshelter here for the night?
I will! But, don't worry, I have a feeling you'll be most welcome here.
Within moments the drawbridge was lowered.A squire led Gringolet to the stables while two servants unbuckledGawain's armour and then escorted him to his host, who was waitingto greet him in front of a blazing fire.
Ahh! Ha, ha! I am Sir Bercilak. You are most welcome!I beg you to treat this castle and everything in it as your own.
Thank you, Sir Bercilak, I am most grateful.But, cold and tired as I am after my long journey, I cannot stay.
Well, why on earth not? What's the rush, ay?Stay a few days, take it easy!
I'm sorry, I cannot.I have made a solemn promise to meet someone at New Yearand yet, I still do not know where to find him.
Well, who is this person?His name is the Green Knight and I must look for him at the Green Chapel.
Ah, ha ha, the Green Chapel!Well then that's settled! The Green Chapel is barely two miles from this castle.Stay until New Year and enjoy yourself, ay, ha ha!
I will!
At midnight, Bercilak accompanied by his pretty young wife took his guestto the chapel to hear mass.The lady, while kneeling apparently in prayer, could not take her eyesof the handsome young man.She peeped at him through her fingers, glancing at himfrom beneath her eye lashes.Gawain gazed at her, marvelling at her clear skin and brillant colouring,her graceful figure and her perfect features.He was brought out of his trance by the lady's husband,who took him gently by the arm.
You have had a long and tiring journey, it is important that you rest.In the morning I shall go hunting, but I suggest you remain in the castleand lie in bed as long as you like. My wife will entertain you.And, let us make a bargain. On my return at night, I will give you whateverI have got in the chase, in exchange for anything you have beengiven during the day here.Do you agree, hey?
If you like.
Promise?
Yes…I promise.
3: At the castle of Sir Bercilak
Nearly a year passes and Gawain sets out to find the Green Chapel.
He arrives at a mysterious castle which is home to Sir Bercilak. Gawain learns that the Green Chapel is nearby and agrees to stay. Sir Bercilak will go hunting the following day and the two of them agree to exchange in the evening whatever they have gained during the day.
Teacher Notes
This series can be used to increase pupils' familiarity with a broad range of texts and narratives, including myths, legends and traditional stories and to make connections between these and other stories they are familiar with.
It will also support a broad range of writing objectives.
This series is relevant for teaching English at KS2, in England and Wales and Northern Ireland, and at First and Second Level in Scotland.
2. The Green Knight's challenge. video
Gawain accepts the Green Knight's unusual challenge and must deliver the first blow.
4. The exchange of gifts. video
Gawain is entertained by Lady Bercilak and accepts a green belt from her as a gift.
5. At the Green Chapel. video
Gawain arrives at the Green Chapel to fulfil his bargain with the Green Knight.
