Introduction
Medieval romance is a literary subgenre that has its roots in the literature of medieval Europe and is marked by several distinctive elements, including mystery, paranormal activity, disguised identities, chivalry, and heroic adventures. These qualities are particularly evident in the epic poem Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, a timeless gem of the English language. This essay will evaluate the poem as it appears in Dan Kwartler’s YouTube explanation for the TED-Ed channel, identifying the instances in which specific characteristics of Medieval Romance are seen.
Traits of a Medieval Romance in the Poem
Mystery
Beginning with the sudden appearance of a vast, green knight in King Arthur’s court at a New Year’s feast, the mystery of the tale is immediately apparent. The mystery surrounding the knight’s background and goals fosters a sense of intrigue and suspense (TED-Ed, 2022). The enigma is further complicated by his challenge to the court, which calls for him to be beheaded and then endure the same blow a year later.
Supernatural Occurrences
Throughout the novel, there are numerous times when the supernatural is plain to see. The most notable event is when the Green Knight picks up Gawain’s severed head and rides off after Gawain decapitates him (TED-Ed, 2022). The knight’s emerald color and apparent immortality further add to the fantastical aspect of the story.
Masking a Character’s Real Identity
In the plot, hiding a character’s true identity is crucial. Magic masks the enigmatic Green Knight, subsequently identified as Lord Bertilak. Until the story’s final scenes, Gawain is kept in the dark about his true identity, adding another level of intrigue and duplicity to the drama.
Chivalry
Sir Gawain represents chivalry, a key element of medieval romance. He voluntarily agrees to take on the Green Knight’s challenge to defend his king and safeguard the Round Table’s honor (TED-Ed, 2022). Additionally, his determination to achieve the bizarre deal shows that he upholds the chivalric ethos of honor, bravery, and integrity despite the seeming death sentence it implies. Despite his shortcomings as a person and moral conflicts, Gawain’s journey ultimately exemplifies a knight’s search for nobility and honor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Sir Gawain and the Green Knight video synopsis demonstrates the fundamental components of Medieval Romance. The story, which is rife with mystery, paranormal elements, and masked characters, paints a vivid picture of chivalry and heroic expeditions and successfully captures the essence of this interesting literary genre. The poem offers a rich analysis of the moral and ethical problems people encounter in their pursuit of glory and honor, in addition to being an engaging story.
Reference
TED-Ed. (2022). The myth of Gawain and the Green Knight – Dan Kwartler [Video]. YouTube. Web.