The characters in the poems, Beowulf and Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, all believed in most of the honorable codes of chivalry. The characters in the poem Beowulf valued courage, strength, loyalty, and conviction. In Sir Gawain and the Green Knight the characters honored similar codes. Beowulf represents all those honorable codes that comprise him as he protects Hrothgar and his people in the epic poem Beowulf. Throughout the poem there are many examples of the main character, Beowulf, representing these codes. During the medieval period, chivalry was used in many literary works. In Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, the characters are also influenced by chivalric codes. Some of these driving forces found in codes of chivalry include courage, honesty, and acceptance of one's true destiny. These three codes of chivalry play a significant role in who the characters in the poem become. In the poem, the Green Knight and Sir Gawain use these codes to shape their actions and values. Although these are two completely different works of literature, they share common beliefs in portraying their codes of chivalry, which shapes who they become as characters. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay In the epic poem, Beowulf comes from the Geat tribe and is known as the great monster slayer. In order for Beowulf to prove his integrity and courage to Hrothgar and his Danish people, he must kill Grendel who is terrorizing them and his mother. The author writes: "They had seen me harnessed in the blood of enemies when I fought and tied five beasts, I raided a troll's nest and in the night sea I massacred sea brutes." It is also said: "Whatever happened, my sword had killed nine sea monsters." These quotes show that Beowulf has a lot of courage and is worthy of defeating these monsters. Courage is an important element that Beowulf believes in throughout the poem. Heroism is clearly shown through the protagonist, Beowulf. In the role of heroism and courage in Beowulf, it is mentioned: “Beowulf represented the bravest character in the poem. He proved his courage in three key moments when he defeats Grendel's mother, Grendel, and when he defeats the dragon. Beowulf quickly recognizes the consequences on those who are not brave, and makes it a goal to demonstrate his courage to ensure he is remembered as a courageous individual.” This quote explains that heroism plays a significant role in Beowulf when he fights these deadly monsters. Beowulf often believes in fighting fair against his enemies. It fights many of its challenges reasonably in order to have a better reward at the end. In the poem it is mentioned: “So Beowulf behaved valiantly; he was formidable in battle but he behaved with honor and took no advantage of it.” The author further states, “Warrior that he was, he observed and controlled his God-sent strength and his exceptional natural powers.” These quotes show that fighting these beasts with extra weapons would be considered dishonorable even if you won. It was believed that fighting enemies equally was a greater achievement for Beowulf. Even though Beowulf does not feel the need to fight these monsters with weapons because he would be considered weak, he knows that he must remain faithful to his king, Higlac. In the Beowulf Commentary it states: “Beowulf admits that his enemy, Grendel, uses no weapons, and he wants to beat Grendel in the same way. Beowulf also mentions that his king, Higlac, would be angry with him if he killed Grendel in any other way.” Beowulf who values fairness and loyalty showshow great of a hero he truly is within the poem. Beowulf is believed to have an extraordinary appearance from others. In the poem, Beowulf possesses some characteristics that are believed to separate him from a normal human being. The poem states: “Nor have I seen a more mighty man-at-arms on this earth than he that stands here.” The author also writes: "He returned with wonderful tales of him: a thane, they declared, with the strength of thirty in each hand." These quotes explain that this belief of looking different than others emphasizes who the hero or main character is. Courage is an important element that a hero must obtain when facing challenges. In the poem, Beowulf is often always ready to face a battle, regardless of the outcome. The author mentions: “He began to take off his iron mail, took off his helmet and handed over to his servant / the decorated sword, a blacksmith's masterpiece. (671-673). The author further states, “Men-at-arms, stand here on the mound, safe in your armour, to see which of us / Will be best at the end to bear wounds in a mortal melee.” These quotes explain that Beowulf believes that his courage will always make him win despite how difficult the challenge may be. In the poem Gawain and the Green Knight, Gawain sees himself as weak and unworthy compared to the other knights. Instead of believing that he is capable of defeating the Green Knight, Gawain accepts the challenge of sacrificing himself for King Arthur. It states itself in poetry. And this stupid business suits my position, not yours: let me play this green man's game. If I ask too boldly, may this court find me guilty.” It further states: "While beside you sit so many brave men who, I think, are unrivaled in mental temperament and unrivaled as warriors on the battlefield." These quotes explain how Gawain respects the rules of chivalry while defending his king. This poem talks about the chivalric values they believed in during this time. Gawain is often tested throughout the poem as to his loyalty. The poem states: “Sir Gawain's chivalry is tested for the Green Knight will perceive Gawain as a dishonorable man if he saves the deal. Courage was important for a knight while Gawain keeps his promise and proves his worth as a knight otherwise it would be useless” (The Chivalric Code in Sir Gawain and the Green Knight). This quote shows that loyalty was an important aspect in codes of chivalry because Gawain accepts the challenge even with a negative outcome. In Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, Gawain sacrifices himself for his king even with the possibility of dying. After Gawain finally meets the Green Knight, he is prepared for the worst and stands his ground as the Green Knight swings his axe. The author writes: “And you, before this can happen, your heart trembles. Who doubts that I am the better man?' “I winced,” said Gawain, “I won't do it again.” He also mentions, “And yet, even if I should lose my life, fear will never make me change color.” These quotes explain that even though Gawain could have died, he believed it was the chivalrous thing to do. Much of the action in the poem comes from the game that Lord Bertilak and Gawain play. During the game, Bertilak's wife tries to subdue Gawain but he must keep his word and exchange his winnings with Bertilak following the rules of chivalry. He says, "Indeed," replied Gawain, "I am highly honoured, though in reality I am not the man of whom you speak, to deserve the respect which you have just described. I am entirely unworthy, I know it very well." '. After the Knight reveals his true character to Gawain, he recognizes his honesty towards him. The author states: “I had the right,.
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