Final answer:
When Sir Gawain and the Green Knight begins, the inhabitants of Camelot are in a cheerful mood. The knights are described as crossing themselves for fear, but Lancelot is lost in thought. The Lady of Shalott also yearns for Camelot.
Step-by-step explanation:
When Sir Gawain and the Green Knight begins, the inhabitants of Camelot are in a cheerful mood.
The poet describes the scene by stating that the knights are crossing themselves for fear, but Lancelot is lost in thought.
Additionally, the poet mentions the presence of joyful damsels, abbot, shepherd-lad, and long-haired page.
The sun is shining and everything is bright and beautiful.
The Lady of Shalott also yearns for Camelot, indicating its positive and desirable reputation.