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Considering the correlation between the attempted seduction of Gawain by Lady Bertilak and the attempted seduction of Joseph of Egypt by Potiphar’s wife, there is a surprising void in scholarly analysis linking the Arthurian and biblical men who are each celebrated for virtue. With the exception of a footnote in 1961, this significant connection has been completely overlooked. This article identifies the similarities between the temptation stories of Gawain and Joseph, explores evidence of medieval knowledge about Joseph’s temptation, and suggests what conclusions might be drawn from this connection. The Gawain-poet was familiar with Joseph’s temptation story and, while omitting any direct references to Joseph of Egypt, the Gawain-poet associates Gawain’s temptation with Joseph’s. It is the exchange of the girdle that alerts readers to the fascinating connection to Joseph’s garment which changes hands when Joseph is tempted by Potiphar’s wife. The girdle is the key by which the Gawain-poet invites readers to recognize the similarities between the two virtuous men, as well as the differences, thus opening the way to an intriguing comparison and conclusion that the celebrated Arthurian knight falls short of the virtue exemplified by the righteous biblical Joseph.

Gawain’s Girdle and Joseph’s Garment: Tokens of ‘Vntrawþe’