Might vs. Right and the quest for the Holy Grail (Notes)

Might vs. Right and the quest for the Holy Grail

- Arthur learns that you can't use Might for Right
(two wrongs don't make a right)
    - Games-mania
"All endeavors which are directed to a purely worldly end...contain within themselves the germs of their own corruption" (434)

- Gawaine doesn't get it
   - is told many times not to kill during the quest, but he ignores the instructions
   "The errant knight stands in a posture which should make the penance needless" (440)
   - is still keeping score! (slew King Bagdegamus)
   - caught up in Games-mania

- Lionel eventually gets it
   - understands the trials of his brother Bors:
    1. Did not kill Sir Pridam (the Grail is not for slaughter)
    2. saved a maiden over his brother Lionel (the maiden was innocent, so deserved saving more than Lionel did)
    3. Does not sleep with the lady who threatens to kill herself if he refuses (you can only control your own actions)
    4. Does not fight his brother (the Grail is not for slaughter)