English Literature

Sir Gawain is one of the greatest Knights of the Round Table. He is described as a frightening warrior yet he is a champion of the poor. Sir Gawain is also known as the Maidens Knight, a defender of women. He wears a coat and a shield with the symbol of a pentangle or a five-pointed star. Each of the point of pentangle represents Sir Gawains a set virtues. The term five-fold was coined because each set of virtues is composed of five. The merits that each of the pentangles points symbolizes define how Sir Gawain lives his life and the principles that he believes in.
   
The first set of virtues symbolized by the pentangle is comprised of Sir Gawains 5 senses. His five senses are very sharp thus making him a very witty warrior. He has the capability to understand situations quickly and respond to in the same fast manner. Another set of virtues represented by the pentangle is Sir Gawains 5 fingers. His 5 fingers represent strength and physical competence. He is a strong and able warrior confident in defending the women and the poor. The next set of virtues represents the 5 wounds of Christ. Basically, faith and trustworthiness are the main philosophies that govern this set. Sir Gawain always recalls the passion of Christ and the teachings that the Lord enlightened the world. Furthermore, the fourth set of pentangle virtues is the 5 joys of Mary. The 5 joys of Mary, collectively, signify the brevity and valor of Sir Gawain. And lastly, the pentangle represents the 5 knightly virtues that guide Sir Gawain friendship, charity, chivalry, chastity and compassion.
   
The aforementioned five five-fold virtues make Sir Gawain a balanced and powerful knight. Evidently, the virtues that guides the way he lives his life and treats others are combination of physical, psychological and emotional strength. The pentangle depicts that Sir Gawain does not have strength alone, but he has heart and soul.