It was Christmas and King Arthur and his knights of The Round Table were at Camelot.For a full fifteen days there had been feasting and jousting, music and dancing.On the first day of the new year, the king himself led the dance with Guinevere his queen.At dinner, according to custom, his insisted that everyone be served before he would sit down.
Eat, drink, enjoy yourselves!
But Lord Arthur, surely you will join us?!
No Gawain, I will not eat. Not until every last person has piled their plate highwith whatever they like.
Yet, listen to me. Good food, fine wines, the company of friends, they are all very well.But, something is missing. Something to complete our feast.Perhaps a story. Some kind of challenge. Or an adventure.
No, I swear I will not eat until I hear of such a thing!
Hardly had he spoken, his voice clear above the talking and laughter and sound of trumpetswhen there rode into the hall a terrifying figure.A giant of a man, massively built whose vast limbs, even his hair and beardwere a brilliant green.He wore a green tunic and from his shoulders hung a richly embroidered cloaktrimmed with green fur.The saddle and bridle of his horse were of green leather studded with emeralds,its mane and tail platted with green silk.Holding in one hand a branch of holly and in the other a huge axethe green giant rode up to the banqueting table.
Which of you is the king?
I am the king. Arthur is my name.
Arthur, your fame is great. You are counted the most noble of men.Your castle the finest in the land. Your knights the bravest in the world.These things are well known. What of them?!As I say, this court…these knights; the finest, the noblest, the bravest.But, what if - what if that weren't really true?What if, you Arthur and all your fine knights here…what if…you're not really as good as you think you are?! What then?If you doubt this court offer us a challenge. You'll not find us wanting!And challenge you I shall. But not as you expect.I wonder…is there a man here brave enough to exchange blows with me?!Think of it as a Christmas game. The rules are these.Today I will receive a blow from any man brave enough to take my axe.But, in exactly one year's time he must allow me to return that blow.
No one spoke.The green knight turned in his saddle and held each in his gaze.He waited to see who would be the first to rise but no one moved.
1: At the court of King Arthur
King Arthur and the court at Camelot are celebrating Christmas.
King Arthur wishes for some kind of Christmas story or game… and at that moment the Green Knight enters. He offers a challenge for one of the knights to give him a single blow with his axe, on condition that he may return the blow exactly one year and a day later.
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.
3. At the castle of Sir Bercilak. video
After a long and dangerous journey Gawain finally arrives at a mysterious castle.
4. The exchange of gifts. video
Gawain is entertained by Lady Bercilak and accepts a green belt from her as a gift.
