The Solstice is almost upon us.I like to reread "Sir Gawain and the Green Knight" this time of year, for 'tis a Christmas story, a winter story, a challenge-and-change story. Young Sir Gawain stands up to defend the King's honor against the green-clothed, green-skinned, green-haired giant's insults and tests. What would you have done if a green giant offered you the chance to prove your mettle--yours, the court's, and the king's-- by taking a swipe at his neck in return for the opportunity to take a swipe at yours a year hence? Must be a trick?
Of course, but imagine when, despite your successful hack with the axe, the mysterious Green Knight catches up that rolling, bleeding head by the hair, and that detached head laughs and reminds you of the grim appointment, a year hence. Would that be a long year or a short year for you? Would you even set out to meet this giant maniac? Would you get lost on the way, particularly since you don't quite know where you are going anyway? (Finding the knight to honor your oath being part of the test.) And, oh, if you find a castle and a lovely lady offers you a magical belt of protection, would you accept it--and lie about taking it? Would . . . .
Where is my copy of this poem?
The original Middle English is wonderful, but more difficult without practice than Chaucer's pieces, so I tend to be a bit lazy and reach for Tolkien's translation. There are other fine ones, beside.
If you are looking for a good book for the autumn/winter evenings . . . .
