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About my house and my home and my own name. Then you may keep your covenant, and call on me, And if I waft you no words, then well may you prosper, Stay long in your own land and look for no further Trial. Now grip your weapon grim; Let us see your fighting style." "Gladly," said Gawain to him, Stroking the steel the while.
9. lese majesty, offense against the dignity of a ruler, severe discourtesy. 10. unmeet, unsuitable, improper. 11. No bounty ... know, that is, the only good in my body comes from your blood. 12. quit, excused from the contest. 13. firmament, heavens, sky. 7 On the ground the Green Knight graciously stood, With head slightly slanting to expose the flesh. His long and lovely locks he laid over his crown, Baring the naked neck for the business now due. Gawain gripped his axe and gathered it on high, Advanced the left foot before him on the ground, And slashed swiftly down on the exposed part, So that the sharp blade sheared through, shattering the bones, Sank deep in the sleek flesh, split it in two, And the scintillating steel struck the ground. The fair head fell from the neck, struck the floor, And people spurned it as it rolled around. Blood spurted from the body, bright against the green. Yet the fellow did not fall, nor falter one whit, But stoutly sprang forward on legs still sturdy, Roughly reached out among the ranks of nobles, Seized his splendid head and straightway lifted it. Then he strode to his steed, snatched the bridle, Stepped into the stirrup and swung aloft, Holding his head in his hand by the hair. He settled himself in the saddle as steadily As if nothing had happened to him, though he had No head. He twisted his trunk about, That gruesome body that bled; He caused much dread and doubt By the time his say was said.1380 1400
14. New Year, a time associated with friendship and piety.
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English IV |