Gawain Paper

Examine the historical relevance of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight by the Pearl Poet. Discuss how ideas, culture, characteristics, and events of the Middle Ages are referenced and how their presence interlock in the work, justifying its use as a source of historical information in this class.

Make sure that you answer all parts of the question. The work itself will be the most important source for your paper, so be sure to cite specific examples from the book to support your arguments and ideas. You may also use your notes and the textbook as potential sources for your paper. If you specifically cite a passage from the notes or text book, you will need to cite those sources as well. Outside sources such as scholarly reviews, articles, or deconstructions concerning Sir Gawain and the Green Knight are not permitted. The purpose of this paper is to relate your personal ideas concerning the book and its use in this course.

I expect citations from a source that you use or draw your ideas from, and suggest that if you quote, do so briefly and efficiently. Please do not give plot summaries or lengthy quotes from the book. This is redundant and wasteful. Citation should be easily understood. For example, if citing Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, the textbook or notes, a simple parenthetical citation will do: for example, (Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, p. x). Be sure that you provide a citation of the copy of the text that you are using (if it is a book give the bibliographical information; if a e-text give the website). The paper should be 3-5 pages in length and should be checked for proper grammar, spelling, punctuation, etc. Avoid slang and contractions as you construct your ideas. The paper should be typed, and handed in electronically.