Anita Obermeier

I found your analysis of the fairy realm as a liminal realm quite fascinating as when I originally read both pieces I primarily focused on the liminal states of the characters. This idea of liminal spaces meaning to be transcended makes me wonder about those that are stuck in the throes of death, and whether or not this is just a transition for them as well. Which would align since Sir Orfeo is able to rescue Heurodis, and in other texts regarding states of hell characters are able to be rescued as well giving this same idea of transition. I suppose the point I am trying to make is it would seem these trapped souls are also just going through a transition as well and may not be stuck there for all eternity.

I share the sentiment of not giving liminality much thought prior to this article and had not thought of Schrodinger's cat, so your mention of it gave me a lot more insight into this concept of going through multiple states of being. One interesting idea that came to mind while reading your response is this thought of Pluto/Hades residing in both states of alive and dead, even though he may be alive the fact that he is surrounded by death gives him that identity and association. Furthermore do you think its this presence of that grafted tree would indicate someone going through a liminal state or would it be going through a liminal state that would summon this 'portal' On a side note I am glad to hear this article has provided you with a new lens of thought in which to view texts.

This was a thorough and pleasant read, and I found your points about the claims to the throne quite fascinating as well. This idea of fate interceding on Gawain's skills as a knight and claim to the crown is especially apparent when you consider that during the Stanzaic Morte Arthur he dies to being hit by the oar. As if no matter what Gawain will never be able to truly fulfill his duties as a knight or heir. Furthermore Arthur meeting his doom to the sword, Clarent, is also quite intriguing. This test of whether or not Arthur is worthy of his title as king, and should he deserve the title from God himself(also giving the justification to the war.) I would say is proven when he is able to strike down Mordred even though Arthur is mortally wounded assuring that Mordred can't take the throne.

I found your response well thought and insightful especially with the points you brought up to talk about the poets possible thoughts on hunting, and the behaviors reflected with these animals. Though I do not agree with the thought that Bertilak is engaging in deception by hunting. Rather I see Bertilak more lined up with the fox when he is perpetrating his identity as the Green Knight as he is deceiving Gawain in that form. You also mention that your only critique is the narrow view with a singular focus on the animals. Are you saying it should be broadened with more ecocritical analysis, and how would you yourself broaden that view.

The examination of Margery kissing the leper as a desire rather than a pious act is something I also did not think to consider. Though I am curious and wonder if Kempe had been allowed to act charitable to any leper and not just female lepers would she have still kissed a male leper, or acted in a different fashion, and if a male leper would also elicit these same "temptations" and "horrible thoughts." Another thought that came to mind while reading your response was, should Margery be interested in female companionship is this thought of "temptation" furthered by the fact that it is a leper she is kissing or do these thoughts persist and she just never has a good opportunity to speak on them.