Sir Gawain and the Green Knight characters

Appears from the start

A young knight of Arthur's court and the king's nephew. When a supernatural visitor challenges the court, Gawain volunteers to protect Arthur from the risk. He presents himself as the least important knight present, but accepts a bargain that will test his courage, courtesy, and honesty.

Also known as The Green Knight

Appears from the start

A gigantic horseman whose skin, hair, clothing, and horse are all green. He enters Arthur's Christmas feast carrying a holly branch and an axe, then proposes an exchange of blows: one knight may strike him now if that knight agrees to receive the same stroke in a year and a day.

Appears from the start

The youthful king presiding over a magnificent Christmas gathering at Camelot. Restless for a marvel before eating, he initially accepts the Green Knight's challenge himself until Gawain asks to take his place.

Appears from the start

Arthur's queen, seated in honor at the court's Christmas feast when the Green Knight arrives. She is part of the court whose reputation and composure the strange challenger deliberately tests.

First appears in chapter 2

The energetic and generous lord of the remote castle where Gawain finds shelter shortly before his appointment at the Green Chapel. He welcomes the knight warmly and proposes that they exchange each day's winnings while the lord hunts and Gawain rests at the castle.

Also known as Lady Bertilak

First appears in chapter 2

The beautiful lady of the castle where Gawain lodges. While her husband is away hunting, she visits Gawain's chamber and uses flirtation, teasing, and the rules of courtly behavior to press him toward a compromising choice.

First appears in chapter 2

An aged, dignified woman who accompanies the lady of the castle and receives Gawain's formal respect. She appears to be a secondary member of the household, though her presence contrasts sharply with the younger woman's beauty.