3.69 AVERAGE


I know this is a classic, but I just couldn't get into it. I found the historical transcription inaccuracies and arguments over translations to be more interesting than the poem itself.
adventurous reflective fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
adventurous challenging dark mysterious reflective fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

Beautiful poem
adventurous inspiring relaxing fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

Sir Gawain and the Green Knight is a classic example of medieval alliterative poetry. Medieval themes of nature (the hunt) and chivalry, temptation and seduction, and seasons/the passing of time are apparent throughout this Arthurian legend. It's a *very* quick read and beautifully written. I highly recommend trying to get your hands on an edition that includes excerpts from the original 14th century middle English version of the poem.
adventurous inspiring fast-paced

More interesting than I expected. Lovely to read the alliteration in the Old English, it gave it a fun feel. Also huge for anyone who wants to gain etymology knowledge, little clues are stashed all over the story.

I enjoyed reading about the history and critical analysis of the poem more than the poem itself.
I find the tale of chivalry and medieval Christian morality quite alien. At the end of the journey Gawain is supposed to put his honor ahead of his life yet nobody seems to mind that at the beginning of the story he lops off a strangers head in a "game" with the hope that the other player can't return the blow if he's dead.
Though I think the translation reads very well, I rate the story itself 3 stars.

I loved loved Simon admitage’s translation so smooth and singing

Read it for my Arthurian class! Really reveals what the misogyny and roles of women were for that time period.