Essential Question #4

We begin to see seduction and lust corrupt Gawain when he has an affair with the wife of his host. The host was extremely hospitable to Gawain because he was a knight. Knights during these times were greatly respected because they were supposed to follow the noble chivalric code. Gawain's host expects him to do the same and does not suspect him of any misdeeds. However, Gawain has become corrupted by his weakness for women. This seems to be Gawain's essential flaw that is unavoidable. He is confronted by women in many circumstances, so it will be difficult for him to overcome this character flaw. When he is confronted by his host's wife he gives in to the temptation. The author is trying to tells us that may be another circumstance in  the future when Gawain will be able to resist breaking his chivalric code, but currently he is giving in to temptation and he is weak.