Question

In Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, Gawain tells the Green Knight, "First I ask and adjure you, how you are called / That you tell me true so that trust it I may." Which definition best suits the word adjure? Explain what this statement tells you about Sir Gawain’s character.

a) plead
b) mock
c) urge
d) honor

Answer 1

The word 'adjure' in 'Sir Gawain and the Green Knight' is best defined as to 'urge', reflecting Sir Gawain's chivalrous nature and his determination to uphold the values of truth and honesty.

Step-by-step explanation:

In Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, when Gawain says, "First I ask and adjure you, how you are called / That you tell me true so that trust it I may," the definition that best suits the word 'adjure' is 'urge.'

This phrase indicates that Sir Gawain insists on the Green Knight disclosing his identity in a manner that is trustworthy. It shows Gawain's insistent and formal nature of seeking the truth. This statement reveals that Sir Gawain's character is chivalrous and earnest, he values honesty highly and is determined to uphold his knightly principles.