Who King Arthur is
King Arthur rules a young, merry court at Camelot, where Christmas brings feasting and games. The poem's author is unknown, while Jessie L. Weston helps bring its story to a wider audience.
Arthur's taste for marvels shapes the feast at which the Green Knight appears. He will not sit down to eat on a great feast day until he hears or sees something extraordinary.
What King Arthur wants
Arthur wants a marvel, but the visitor also challenges the courage of his court. When the knights hesitate and the stranger mocks them, Arthur flushes with anger and seizes the axe.
King Arthur and the others in the story
Gawain is Arthur's nephew, and his loyalty to the king leads him to speak. He argues that Arthur should not risk his life over the stranger's game. Arthur accepts Gawain's request and hands him the axe with a blessing.
Questions
Who is King Arthur in the poem?
King Arthur is Camelot's young ruler and Gawain's uncle.
Does King Arthur accept the Green Knight's challenge?
Arthur prepares to take the challenge, but Gawain asks to take his place.
Why does Gawain protect King Arthur?
Gawain acts from loyalty and says it would be shameful for the king to risk his life over the game.