Sir Gawain And The Green Knight Quiz

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1. What does Lady Bertilak tell Sir Gawain about the green girdle?

Explanation

Lady Bertilak tells Sir Gawain that the green girdle will protect whoever wears it from death.

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About This Quiz
Poetry Quizzes & Trivia

Explore medieval English history and literature with the 'Sir Gawain and the Green Knight Quiz'. Assess your knowledge on the Anglo-Norman period, the Battle of Hastings, and key... see moremedieval concepts like the Wheel of Fortune. Perfect for students of English literature and history enthusiasts. see less

2. After Sir Gawain chops off the Green Knight's head with the axe, what happens? 

Explanation

After Sir Gawain chops off the Green Knight's head with the axe, the Green Knight picks up his severed head and reminds Gawain to find him in a year and a day at the Green Chapel. This demonstrates the supernatural nature of the Green Knight, as he is able to survive such a severe injury. It also sets up the main conflict of the story, as Gawain must now embark on a quest to fulfill his promise and face the consequences of his actions.

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3. At the start of the poem, which place and time are described?

Explanation

The correct answer is Camelot at Christmas. This can be inferred from the options given, where each option describes a different place and time. The mention of Camelot at Christmas suggests that the poem begins in Camelot during the Christmas season.

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4. " 'You are not Gawain, the glorious' the Green man said. […] Yet, you lacked, sir, a little loyalty there, But the cause was not cunning, nor courtesy either, But that you loved your own ...........: the less, then, to blame" 

Explanation

The correct answer is "life." In this excerpt, the Green man criticizes the person being addressed for lacking loyalty. The reason for this lack of loyalty is not due to cunning or courtesy, but rather because the person loves their own life too much. This suggests that the person prioritizes their own self-interests over loyalty to others.

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5. When Sir Gawain realises that he has failed the Green Knight's test, what does he view the green girdle as a symbol of?

Explanation

Sir Gawain views the green girdle as a symbol of shame. The green girdle represents his failure to uphold his knightly virtues and his inability to remain true to his word. Gawain had promised to exchange blows with the Green Knight, but instead, he concealed the girdle, which was given to him by the lord's wife as a token of protection. This act of deceit and cowardice brings shame upon Gawain, as he realizes that he has failed the test of honor and integrity.

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6. How does the Green Knight offend King Arthur when he first enters the hall?

Explanation

The Green Knight offends King Arthur when he first enters the hall by asking who the King is. This is considered offensive because it implies that the Green Knight does not recognize King Arthur's authority and is questioning his position as the ruler. It is a disrespectful and challenging gesture that undermines King Arthur's power and authority in his own kingdom.

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7. What is the Green Knight's objective in proposing the Beheading Game?

Explanation

The Green Knight's objective in proposing the Beheading Game is to reveal the true nature of knighthood. By challenging the knights to a game where they must behead him and then allow him to return the favor a year later, the Green Knight tests their courage, honor, and loyalty. This game serves as a way to expose the moral character of the knights and to show whether they truly embody the ideals of knighthood.

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8. Which of the following is not a medieval genre?

Explanation

The correct answer is Novel. During the medieval period, the novel as a genre did not exist. The other options, religious prose, narrative prose, and romance, were all popular genres during this time. Religious prose refers to writings that focused on religious themes and teachings. Narrative prose includes fictional or non-fictional storytelling. Romance refers to tales of chivalry, love, and adventure. However, the novel as we know it today did not emerge until the 18th century. Therefore, it is not considered a medieval genre.

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9. What is the name of the short line followed by four longer rhymed lines which appear after an irregular number of unrhymed lines in the text?

Explanation

The bob-and-wheel technique is the name of the short line followed by four longer rhymed lines that appear after an irregular number of unrhymed lines in the text.

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10. "Not all, I think, for ..................... But some of courteous grace Let him how was their head Be spokesman in that place."

Explanation

The word "dread" fits well in the given context because it creates a sense of fear or anxiety. The speaker is suggesting that not everyone should be feared or dreaded, but only those who possess a certain level of courtesy and grace should be given that authority. The word "dread" adds a tone of caution and seriousness to the statement.

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11. During the Anglo-Norman period, which of the following became the language of court?

Explanation

During the Anglo-Norman period, French became the language of court. This was because the Norman conquerors, who spoke French, ruled over England during this time. French became the language of the ruling class, including the courts, administration, and nobility. It was used in official documents, legal proceedings, and social interactions among the elite. English, on the other hand, was mainly spoken by the common people. Latin was also used in religious and academic contexts, but French was the dominant language of the court during this period.

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12. Which rhetorical device corresponds to the following definition? "A form of extended metaphor, in which objects, persons, and actions in a narrative, are equated with the meanings that lie outside the narrative itself. A story with two meanings: a literal and a figurative one."

Explanation

An allegory is a form of extended metaphor where objects, persons, and actions in a narrative are equated with meanings that lie outside the narrative itself. It is a story that has two meanings, a literal one and a figurative one. This definition fits the description given in the question, making allegory the correct answer.

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13. The author of the SGGK text is often referred to as what?

Explanation

The author of the SGGK text is often referred to as "The Pearl Poet" because the text is believed to be written by the same anonymous poet who also wrote the poem "Pearl." The term "Pearl Poet" is used to refer to this unknown poet who is known for his/her works, including SGGK and Pearl.

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14. What type of hero is Sir Gawain?

Explanation

Sir Gawain is considered a chivalric hero because he embodies the ideals of chivalry. Throughout the Arthurian legends, Sir Gawain is portrayed as a noble and virtuous knight who follows a strict code of honor. He is known for his bravery, loyalty, and courtesy, and he upholds the values of chivalry, such as protecting the weak, showing respect to women, and maintaining his integrity. Sir Gawain's character and actions align with the chivalric ideals, making him a prime example of a chivalric hero.

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15. With which device does the poet exaggerate the Green Knight's features?

Explanation

The poet exaggerates the Green Knight's features using hyperbole. Hyperbole is a figure of speech that involves exaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally. In this case, the poet uses hyperbole to emphasize and amplify the Green Knight's features, making them seem larger or more significant than they actually are. This technique adds emphasis and drama to the description of the Green Knight, creating a vivid and memorable image in the reader's mind.

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16. Why do the castle characters remain nameless until the end of the piece?

Explanation

The castle characters remain nameless until the end of the piece because they function as abstract elements of change and represent nobility at large. Their lack of names allows them to symbolize a broader concept rather than individual characters. By remaining nameless, they become more universal and represent the idea of nobility in general.

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17. The text is a verse romance. How would you define this genre?

Explanation

A Middle-English alliterative romance is a genre of literature that combines elements of romance and poetry. It is written in Middle English and follows a specific poetic structure, using alliteration as a key feature. These romances often tell stories of adventure, chivalry, and love, and were popular during the medieval period. The use of alliteration adds a musical quality to the verse, enhancing the poetic and storytelling aspects of the genre.

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18. .......................... performs a relevant structural and thematic role in SGGK, both at the formal level and at a symbolic level. 

Explanation

Symmetry is an important element in Sir Gawain and the Green Knight (SGGK) as it serves a significant structural and thematic purpose. At the formal level, symmetry is evident in the organization of the poem, with the narrative divided into two equal parts, each containing three days. This symmetrical structure creates a sense of balance and order. Symbolically, symmetry represents the moral and ethical choices faced by Gawain, as he strives to maintain his honor and integrity. The parallelism in the poem highlights the contrast between Gawain's idealized chivalric code and the reality of his human flaws and temptations.

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19. Which of these is not a characteristic of medieval literature?

Explanation

Stream of consciousness is not a characteristic of medieval literature. Medieval literature is known for its focus on heroism, moral lessons, and idealized behavior. Stream of consciousness, on the other hand, is a literary technique that emerged in the early 20th century and is characterized by a narrative style that attempts to replicate the inner thoughts and experiences of characters. It was not a feature of medieval literature, which had a more straightforward and didactic approach to storytelling.

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20. Which of these characteristics of the text clearly differentiates it from Beowulf?

Explanation

The text clearly differentiates itself from Beowulf in several ways. Firstly, it has more sophisticated moral foundations, suggesting a more nuanced exploration of ethics and values. Secondly, it portrays women as powerful instruments of change, which is a departure from the traditional portrayal of women in Beowulf. Lastly, it uses Middle English, while Beowulf is written in Old English. These characteristics collectively set the text apart from Beowulf.

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21. In the Middle Ages, what did the head symbolise?

Explanation

In the Middle Ages, the head symbolized self-consciousness. This means that individuals were aware of themselves and their own thoughts, feelings, and actions. The head was seen as the center of one's identity and self-awareness, representing the ability to reflect on oneself and have a sense of personal identity.

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22. Who is Morgan le Faye (the old lady at Lord Bertilak's castle)?

Explanation

Morgan le Faye is Gawain's aunt and King Arthur's half sister. This means that she is related to both Gawain and King Arthur, being the sister of one and the half-sister of the other.

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23. Which two colours does the Green Knight wear?

Explanation

The Green Knight wears green and gold. This can be inferred from the question, which states "Which two colours does the Green Knight wear?" The correct answer, "Green and gold," matches the description given in the question.

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24. The Ptolemaic conception of the universe stated what?

Explanation

The Ptolemaic conception of the universe stated that the earth was located at the centre of the universe. This geocentric model was widely accepted for centuries and believed that all celestial bodies revolved around the earth. It was later replaced by the heliocentric model proposed by Copernicus, which stated that the sun was at the centre of the universe.

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25. Which of the following does not characterise the hero's quest in medieval literature?

Explanation

In medieval literature, the hero's quest is often characterized by his journey towards a goal, his tragic flaw, and his code of conduct. However, cowardice in battle does not typically characterize the hero's quest in this genre. Instead, heroes are usually depicted as brave and courageous in the face of adversity, especially in battle.

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26. SGGK is told in the third person, except when the narrator describes events from his own perspective. What is this technique called?

Explanation

The technique described in the question is called the eyewitness technique. This technique involves the narrator telling the story in the third person, but occasionally switching to first person when describing events from their own perspective. This allows the narrator to provide a more personal and subjective account of the events, while still maintaining an overall objective tone.

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27. Which of these is not one of the seven deadly sins?

Explanation

Dishonesty is not one of the seven deadly sins. The seven deadly sins, also known as the capital vices, are a classification of vices that have been used in Christian teachings. The traditional seven deadly sins include lust, gluttony, greed, sloth, wrath, envy, and pride. Dishonesty, although considered morally wrong, is not specifically included in this list of deadly sins.

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28. In the High Middle Ages, the transition towards which movement began?

Explanation

During the High Middle Ages, there was a shift towards the Renaissance movement. This period marked a revival of interest in art, literature, and learning, as well as a transition towards a more secular and humanistic worldview. The Renaissance was characterized by a renewed focus on the individual and a break from the dominance of the Church, leading to advancements in various fields such as science, exploration, and the arts. Therefore, the transition towards the Renaissance movement began in the High Middle Ages.

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29. Which of the following time brackets comprises the Anglo-Norman period in England?

Explanation

The Anglo-Norman period in England refers to the time when the Normans, led by William the Conqueror, invaded and gained control of England in 1066. This period lasted until around 1340 when the Plantagenet dynasty came into power. Therefore, the time bracket that comprises the Anglo-Norman period in England is 1066-1340.

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30. Medieval heroes often suffered from what?

Explanation

Medieval heroes often suffered from love sickness, which refers to a condition of intense longing or infatuation with someone, often accompanied by physical and emotional symptoms. This was a common theme in medieval literature and legends, where heroes would often be depicted as being consumed by their love for a particular person, leading to great suffering and often tragic consequences. Love sickness was seen as a noble and romantic affliction, highlighting the hero's passionate and devoted nature.

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31. Which of the following did not contribute to the spreading of the Black Death to Europe?

Explanation

Pigs did not contribute to the spreading of the Black Death to Europe. The Black Death was primarily spread by rats and their fleas, which carried the bacteria Yersinia pestis. These infected fleas would bite humans, transmitting the disease. Ships also played a significant role in spreading the disease as they transported infected rats and fleas across different regions. However, pigs were not a major factor in the spread of the Black Death.

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32. The text reveals the author's aversion to increasing corruption in what?

Explanation

The text reveals the author's aversion to increasing corruption in the knightly code.

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33. When was Sir Gawain and the Green Knight written?

Explanation

Sir Gawain and the Green Knight is a medieval poem written in Middle English. It is believed to have been composed between 1375 and 1400, making it one of the earliest surviving works of English literature. The poem tells the story of Sir Gawain, a knight of King Arthur's Round Table, and his encounter with the mysterious Green Knight. The time period in which the poem was written is significant as it reflects the cultural and literary influences of the late 14th century.

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34. The Battle of Hastings was fought between William the Conqueror of Normandy and whom?

Explanation

The Battle of Hastings was fought between William the Conqueror of Normandy and Harold Godwinson. This battle took place in 1066 and was a decisive conflict in the Norman conquest of England. Harold Godwinson, who was the reigning English king at the time, faced William's invasion and ultimately lost, resulting in William becoming the new king of England.

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35. During his search, Gawain rides through the Northwest of England on a horse called what?

Explanation

Gawain rides through the Northwest of England on a horse called Gringolet.

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36. How many estates was medieval society divided into?

Explanation

Medieval society was divided into three estates: the clergy, the nobility, and the commoners. The clergy consisted of the religious leaders and held significant power and influence. The nobility comprised the aristocracy, including kings, queens, and other noble families. They held land and had political and social privileges. The commoners, also known as the third estate, included peasants, merchants, and artisans. They made up the majority of the population and had limited rights and social status. This division of society into three estates was a defining characteristic of the feudal system during the Middle Ages.

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37. Why does the Green Knight have the right to criticise the fact that King Arthur's knights are not fulfilling their duties?

Explanation

The Green Knight has the right to criticize King Arthur's knights because he is also a knight himself. As a fellow knight, he understands the code of chivalry and the responsibilities that come with it. He is able to assess whether or not the knights are fulfilling their duties based on his own knowledge and experience as a knight.

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38. Where is the Black Death thought to have originated?  

Explanation

The Black Death is thought to have originated in China. The disease, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, is believed to have spread from China along trade routes, particularly the Silk Road, during the 14th century. From there, it reached Europe, causing one of the deadliest pandemics in history. The theory is supported by historical records and genetic evidence, which suggest that the strain of Yersinia pestis responsible for the Black Death originated in China.

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39. Whose reaction to Gawain's sin is the most rational?

Explanation

The Green Knight's reaction to Gawain's sin is the most rational because he understands the code of honor and chivalry. He acknowledges Gawain's mistake but also recognizes his efforts to uphold his end of the bargain. The Green Knight does not seek revenge or harm Gawain, but rather teaches him a lesson about honesty and integrity. This rational response shows wisdom and fairness, making The Green Knight's reaction the most logical in this situation.

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40. What do Gawain and Lord Bertilak exchange on the second day of the chastity test?

Explanation

On the second day of the chastity test, Gawain and Lord Bertilak exchange two kisses for a wild boar's head. This suggests that Lord Bertilak has successfully hunted a wild boar and Gawain is willing to exchange kisses as a form of payment or gratitude for the prized boar's head. This exchange further demonstrates Gawain's commitment to fulfill his end of the bargain and maintain his chastity, as he willingly participates in the exchange without any hesitation.

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41. What does the guide tell Sir Gawain before leaving him at the border of the forest on New Year's Day?

Explanation

The guide tells Sir Gawain before leaving him at the border of the forest on New Year's Day that he will not tell anyone if he decides to quit the game.

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42. The Green Knight draws blood from Sir Gawain's neck on which strike?

Explanation

The correct answer is the third strike. In the medieval poem "Sir Gawain and the Green Knight," the Green Knight challenges Sir Gawain to a game where they exchange blows with an axe. After the first two strikes, Sir Gawain flinches but does not bleed. However, on the third strike, the Green Knight draws blood from Sir Gawain's neck, testing his bravery and honor.

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43. How do Arthur and his court react to Gawain's sin?

Explanation

The correct answer suggests that Arthur and his court patronize Gawain and turn the girdle into a fashion statement. This implies that instead of criticizing Gawain for his sin, they mockingly embrace it and use it as a fashion trend. This reaction indicates a lack of seriousness and a disregard for Gawain's actions, possibly highlighting a superficial and insincere nature within Arthur's court.

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44. The piece is composed of how many stanzas?

Explanation

The correct answer is 101. The question is asking about the number of stanzas in a piece. A stanza is a group of lines in a poem, so the piece being referred to must be a poem. The answer is 101, indicating that the poem is composed of 101 stanzas.

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45. When does Gawain prepare to leave Camelot and find the Green Knight?

Explanation

Gawain prepares to leave Camelot and find the Green Knight on All Saints' Day.

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46. Which of these is not a virtue of the pentangle on Sir Gawain's shield?

Explanation

The pentangle on Sir Gawain's shield represents five virtues: friendship, generosity, modesty, chastity, and piety. However, the question asks for the virtue that is NOT represented by the pentangle. Therefore, the correct answer is Modesty, as it is one of the virtues depicted on the shield.

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47. What sound confirms Gawain's suspicions that he has reached the Green Chapel?

Explanation

The sound of a scythe against a grindstone confirms Gawain's suspicions that he has reached the Green Chapel. This sound suggests that someone is sharpening a blade, which is typically done before a beheading. Since Gawain is expecting to face the Green Knight and fulfill his end of the bargain, the sound of a scythe being sharpened indicates that he is in the right place.

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48. Which of these was not a consequence of the Norman Conquest of England?

Explanation

The Norman Conquest of England led to various consequences, such as the foundation of the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge, a zest for refined life and the knightly code, and religious crusades to claim Jerusalem from the infidels. However, the implementation of laissez-faire economics was not a consequence of the Norman Conquest. Laissez-faire economics emerged much later in history and was associated with the Enlightenment and the Industrial Revolution, rather than the Norman Conquest.

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49. The "Wheel of Fortune" was a pervasive idea throughout the Middle Ages. What did it not represent?

Explanation

During the Middle Ages, the concept of the "Wheel of Fortune" was widely accepted. This idea symbolized the ephemeral nature of earthly things, suggesting that everything is subject to change and impermanence. It also represented an evolution of the Old English concept of "wyrd," which referred to fate or destiny. However, the Wheel of Fortune did not represent the stability of all things. Instead, it emphasized the unpredictable and ever-changing nature of life. Lastly, it did not imply that important things in life come from within, as it focused more on external factors such as fate and circumstances.

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50. The beheading game is a motif which first appeared in the literature of which country?

Explanation

The beheading game is a motif that involves a challenge where a person's life is at stake, and it first appeared in the literature of Ireland. This motif is commonly found in Irish folklore and mythology, such as the story of Cú Chulainn. In this tale, Cú Chulainn participates in a beheading game where he must allow his opponent to strike his neck first before retaliating. This motif has since been adopted and adapted in various literary works around the world.

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What does Lady Bertilak tell Sir Gawain about the green girdle?
After Sir Gawain chops off the Green Knight's head with the axe, what...
At the start of the poem, which place and time are described?
" 'You are not Gawain, the glorious' the Green man said....
When Sir Gawain realises that he has failed the Green Knight's test,...
How does the Green Knight offend King Arthur when he first enters the...
What is the Green Knight's objective in proposing the Beheading Game?
Which of the following is not a medieval genre?
What is the name of the short line followed by four longer rhymed...
"Not all, I think, for ........................
During the Anglo-Norman period, which of the following became the...
Which rhetorical device corresponds to the following definition?...
The author of the SGGK text is often referred to as what?
What type of hero is Sir Gawain?
With which device does the poet exaggerate the Green Knight's...
Why do the castle characters remain nameless until the end of the...
The text is a verse romance. How would you define this genre?
.......................... performs a relevant structural and thematic...
Which of these is not a characteristic of medieval literature?
Which of these characteristics of the text clearly differentiates it...
In the Middle Ages, what did the head symbolise?
Who is Morgan le Faye (the old lady at Lord Bertilak's castle)?
Which two colours does the Green Knight wear?
The Ptolemaic conception of the universe stated what?
Which of the following does not characterise the hero's quest in...
SGGK is told in the third person, except when the narrator describes...
Which of these is not one of the seven deadly sins?
In the High Middle Ages, the transition towards which movement began?
Which of the following time brackets comprises the Anglo-Norman period...
Medieval heroes often suffered from what?
Which of the following did not contribute to the spreading of the...
The text reveals the author's aversion to increasing corruption in...
When was Sir Gawain and the Green Knight written?
The Battle of Hastings was fought between William the Conqueror of...
During his search, Gawain rides through the Northwest of England on a...
How many estates was medieval society divided into?
Why does the Green Knight have the right to criticise the fact that...
Where is the Black Death thought to have originated?  
Whose reaction to Gawain's sin is the most rational?
What do Gawain and Lord Bertilak exchange on the second day of the...
What does the guide tell Sir Gawain before leaving him at the border...
The Green Knight draws blood from Sir Gawain's neck on which strike?
How do Arthur and his court react to Gawain's sin?
The piece is composed of how many stanzas?
When does Gawain prepare to leave Camelot and find the Green Knight?
Which of these is not a virtue of the pentangle on Sir Gawain's...
What sound confirms Gawain's suspicions that he has reached the Green...
Which of these was not a consequence of the Norman Conquest of...
The "Wheel of Fortune" was a pervasive idea throughout the Middle...
The beheading game is a motif which first appeared in the literature...
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