Gawain

Gawain (Birtwistle). Libretto by David Harsent; 2 acts; first performance London 1991, conducted by Elgar Howarth.

Morgan le Fay manipulates and comments on the action. At New Year in the court of Arthur and his wife Guinevere, the Green Knight challenges someone to hit his neck with an axe, on condition that he return the blow a year later. Gawain, the knight known for his courtesy, accepts the challenge and decapitates the Green Knight. The Knight retrieves his head, which speaks, telling Gawain to meet him at the Green Chapel. As the seasons change, Gawain sets off. At the castle of Sir Bertilak and Lady de Hautdesert, he is entertained and the Lady tries to seduce him. Gawain leaves for the Green Chapel, wearing a sash given to him by her Ladyship which will protect him. The Green Knight cuts Gawain lightly with his third blow, and reveals himself as Sir Bertilak. Gawain returns to Arthur's court, ashamed of his cowardice in wearing the protection.