In Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, an important transformation takes place as Sir Gawain undergoes various forms of spiritual testing throughout the story. In this story, as opposed to previous stories in which the hero was fighting for his people, Sir Gawain is fighting for his integrity. Gawain must pass all the requirements of the ideal chivalric knight in order to triumph. He is presented with and accepts an opportunity to break free from the restraints of his youth and enter a world of valor. Yet, despite his eventual failure in the tests he encounters, he does in a sense become exalted. Gawain's understanding and acceptance of his flawed nature, and his confession