“Thus far have I guided you, good sir, at this time, and even now you stand near the noteworthy place that you sought for, and searched after, with such insistent questions. But be certain when I say this, seeing that I know you, my lord, as one in this life whom I well love – It would be worth your while to let my wisdom guide you. The place you are pressing toward has a perilous name. This wilderness holds the wickedest warrior on earth. He is strong and stern, and he strikes with zeal, for he is the mightiest man in this mortal realm, and his body outbulks the four bravest heroes in Arthur’s house, or Hector, or anyone else! What games he gets up to in the Green Chapel – Whoever approaches that place, though he be proudly armed, will get drubbed to death by his driving hand, for he’s a merciless man, immoderate in spirit. Whether peasant or pastor passes that chapel, or minister, or monk, or any other man, he’d sooner slaughter that fellow than save his own life. As certainly as you sit in the saddle, sir, I must say, if you come there, he’ll kill you; of that there’s no question. You can trust it would be true, though you had twenty lives to spend. He always makes the throes of savage strife descend. Against his bitter blows no one can defend
Sir Gawain's guide tells him not to be a fool.
I've just finished translating stanza #84 of 101 in Sir Gawain and the Green Knight.
Enjoy!
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