Sir Gawain and the Green Knight

Fit III Questions

1.    Fit III is the largest, longest and most sophisticated of the four Fits. In this Fit Lady Bercilak tempts Gawain three times. Examine the three temptations and evaluate Gawain's behavior and level of "success." If you accept that Gawain is being tempted, then you should be able to infer that Gawain is really being tested in some way. Examine the tests and what skills Gawain must employ to pass these tests. Finally, speculate as to the consequences of failing any of the tests.

2.    Next, examine the hunting scenes and notice their juxtaposition to the temptation scenes. What significance can you attribute to the way the author has structured this Fit?

3.    The problems associated with Gawain's acceptance of the Green Girdle exist on several different levels. Examine this issue from as many perspectives as possible. Finally, draw conclusions as to whether or not Gawain has "failed" by accepting the Girdle from Lady Bercilak.

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