Sir Gawain Vs Beowulf Essay

Humanity has always had an ideal figure to look up to or pursue, whether it be for selfish reasons or for the good of all. During medieval times, the Code of Chivalry was followed - a moral system which went beyond rules of combat and introduced the concept of virtuous conduct. It represents qualities in knighthood such as bravery, courtesy, and honor, setting an example of the ideal character. The two texts Sir Gawain and the Green knight and Beowulf, medieval and Anglo-Saxon respectively, serve as a demonstration of what these values are. The valiant actions of two heroes boast the chivalric qualities they possess and gain on their journey’s. The medieval text describes Sir Gawain’s decisions and struggles which deeply affect his fate and his view of moral standards, while the Anglo-Saxon text delves into the heroic feats performed by Beowulf. Sir Gawain and Beowulf are chivalrous, but Beowulf is more chivalric as he fights for the welfare of others, eschews unfairness and deceit, and never fails to tell the truth.
A common argument in this debate is that Beowulf is not chivalrous as he accepts all pecuniary rewards. However, according to
Although both Sir Gawain and Beowulf undergo similar processes to achieve their chivalrousness, Gawain does not live up to every standard of the Code of Chivalry perfectly whereas Beowulf exemplifies the traits he lives by. This, however, shows that Gawain is only human unlike Beowulf, whose perfect care for others, ability to always tell the truth, and fairness push him over the top where it is impossible to achieve that level of chivalry for Sir Gawain. These men together form the representation of the moral ideals during their ages. Ultimately, these ancient poems help guide humanity on a journey towards the goal it is pursuing by telling the stories of two men on their own