Sir Gawain and the Green Knight Hero’s Journey

1. Sir Gawain and the Green KnightHero’s Journey Taylor Hall Block ¾ Mr. Grice/English IV Honors November 11, 2010

2. Departure • The Call to Adventure- The Green Knight comes to Camelot and offers the kingdom the challenge • Refusal of the Call-No one excepts the challenge of the Green Knight and King Arthur has to stand up because his knights don't accept it. Gawain finally realizes he should take the challenge.

3. Departure • Supernatural Aid- God and praying in Mary. He crosses himself three times to ensure the prayer gets through. • The Crossing of the First Threshold- Gawain leaves Camelot to start on his long journey to find the Green Chapel • The Belly of the Whale- Gawain is fighting the perils of the wilderness. His efforts seem pointless when he tries to ask for directions but no one seems to know. He is basically on his own.

4. Initiation • The Road of Trials- Gawain fights different magical creatures and almost loses his life due to the weather. • The Meeting with the Goddess- After Gawain seems as if he has nothing left, he prays to Mary for her guidance and help. She is also on his shield. • Woman as the Temptress- The lady of the White Castle is introduced as the temptress right off the bat.

5. Initiation • Apotheosis- Gawain lives and enjoys the pleasures of the Lord’s castle. He rests, eats, and lounges all day. • The Ultimate Boon- Gawain succeeds in not giving into the temptations of the lady of the castle.

6. Return • Refusal of the Return- Does not accept the green scarf as a gift from the Green Knight • Rescue from Without- Gawain takes the lesson from the Green Knight and does learn about his true nature

7. Return • The Crossing of the Return Threshold- Gawain leaves from the Green Chapel ashamed and embarrassed. • Master of the Two Worlds- He learns about himself and accepts his low points. • Freedom to Live- Gawain explains that he will wear the green scarf forever as a sign of his shame

8. THE END