by Max Borowski and Angela Ou

The Ever Humble and Chivalrous Knight

Physical AppearanceAn important aspect of The Knight’s physical descriptions is that they are done so that they bring more attention to his actions and achievements rather than his clothes or material things.We know that he is “not gaily dressed” (70), so he does not dress in expensive, gaudy clothing even though as a noble and accomplished knight, he could afford to. We also see that he is “ever honoured” (50)” and respected, showing that he has no need for flashy clothes to make others respect him; his personality is what makes that happen.His “fustian tunic, stained and dark” (71), shows how he does not demand luxurious materials, and how outward appearances are unimportant compared to his traits of “truth, honour, generousness and courtesy” (46). Fustian, a fairly inexpensive material, is his tunic of choice and having stained or dirty clothes do not faze him.

The one finer thing he is described as having are his “fine horses” (70). However, even these are a necessity as a soldier. He needs fine horses in order to fight and serve God better. They are not just a luxury that he wants for himself.

It is stated that he is “just home from service” (73), so there is a possibility that he may have some cuts or bruises, and thus we gave him a scar on his eye. It is also notable that he if he has just recently returned, he has not felt that he needs time to rest, but that it is his duty to immediately thank God on this pilgrimage for all that he’s received.

Fine horses (70)

Stained and Dark (71)

Just home from service (73)

Not gaily dressed (70)

Manner of PresentationHe is immediately described as “distinguished” (43). To be distinguished is to be defined as successful, authoritative, and commanding great respect. There is a chivalrous diction carried throughout his description: he is greatly concerned about “truth, honour, generousness and courtesy” (46), and they have been important to him since “the day on which he first began / To ride abroad” (44-45). Ever since the beginning of his journey, he has held these values close to his heart.

He “had done nobly in sovereign’s war” (47), therefore much is said about his war efforts, but there is almost nothing said about his appearance. The lack of gratuitousness in the text represents his own lack of flashiness - he is deeply humble. He is shown to be incredibly well-traveled, but all his worldly experiences are of his times at war. He does not travel for pleasure, as he is more interested in humility than luxury. This emphasis on his service also shows that the most striking thing about him is not his finery or material things, but rather his chivalrous demeanor.

He is said to be “A true, perfect gentle-knight” (68) - he embodies everything that a Knight should. Despite experiencing many rough battles, witnessing such a great amount of death and violence, he is still gentle and kind in his actions.

He is on his pilgrimage to “render thanks” to God (73). Although he was fighting in “service” to God (73), he still feels as though he must thank Him. This idea that one should be a servant to God is often seen and emphasized in scripture, and therefore the author uses this to paint the Knight as a perfect Christian.

Not only is he a successful warrior, but he is also loved “as well in Christian as in heathen places” (49) People respect him, but still love him. It is not the kind of respect based in fear, it is a respect in which people genuinely look up to him. He is known to be“distinguished” and “wise” (11), yet he doesn't brag about it, instead he stays “in his bearing modest as a maid” (65). This humility brings him even more love and admiration. He has fought in many wars, and often sits “in the chair/Of honour” (52-53).