Gawain and the Green Knight
...lized both in a literal sense and symbolically, and comparisons between the color green and other colors, specifically gold and red, determine different themes and conflicts within the work. Green is used to describe the monster (the Knight), the transformation of the seasons, and the pagan ideals that are inherent to the situation. One of the most significant uses of the color green occurs in the author’s attempt to show the passage of time. For example, the green of spring then flows into the season of summer; while the green garlands that were once collected by the pagans as a celebration of the winter solstice, all underscore the passage of time. The time in the scope of the poem passes quickly and almost a year passes as Sir Gawain awaits his follow through with the challenge made by the Green Knight. Though Sir Gawain’s willingness to follow through with the commitment made in the challenge, there are two things that come into clearer view at the onset of the second fitt: while Sir Gawain’s valor in addressing the Knight in his King’s stead is valued in the first fitt, it appears to be viewed less simplistically after almost a year has passed, and the belief that Sir Gawain must enter into this contract with the Green Knight is perceived as a problem with the directives of the king himself. “Who knew ever any kyng such counsel to take/ As knightes in cavelaciouns on Cristmasse games!” (Burrow Edition lns. 682-83). The use of green symbolism, then, to move the reader onto a better understanding of the transformation of the seasons and the transformation of Gawain, who is a knight that has always viewed valor as one of the most significant characteristics. It can be said that the color green and the great frequency in it use underscore Gawain’s str...