Sir Gawain and the Green Knight Vs Le Morte D'arthur

Both Malory’s, Le Morte d’Arthur, and “Sir Gawain and the Green Knight” revolve around Griflet and Gawain’s devotion to their roles as knights, as well as their exceptional bravery. The two knights valiantly sacrifice themselves for their king, despite potential risks or repercussions. Throughout the stories, the two men exude a wholehearted courage that guides them to serve and protect those in need. Additionally, both portrayals of Arthur's court and medieval Europe as a whole are largely centered on the significance of chivalry in everyday deeds. However, the character of the knight threatening Arthur's court differs between the two works. Moreover, Griflet and Gawain contrast one another in their knighthood status, as Gawain is one of the most revered knights in Arthur's entire realm, whereas Griflet had only just been knighted. Despite their differences, both authors ultimately use their romances to reflect the idea that one’s best morality comes through selfless acts of placing another’s needs above one's own.

The two romances portray a story of a knight who comes face to face with a decision that will change the course of his life: to choose between protecting his king above his fear, or to remain silent while his King risks his life for his people. Both Gawain and Griflet chose to overcome their terror, and courageously defend their king, fellow knights, and entire kingdom. Both stories differ, however, as all tales will, with distinctly contrasting antagonists, varying portrayals of Arthur’s court, and separate plot lines entirely. Ultimately, though, both tales are dashing accounts of danger, bravery, and adventure teaching readers that the most honorable among us are those who stand up to defend others in need.