The round table ignorantly transforms Gawain's symbol of shame and sin into a memory of pride and respect. Contrasts are evident throughout this satire and allow the reader to clearly distinguish appearance from reality. The characters' illusions are shattered throughout this satire. The old lady of the castle gave the illusion of fragility, but in reality she controlled all of Gawain's defiance. The young woman gave the impression of an innocent mistress but in reality was trying to prevent him from fulfilling his bets. The Green Knight was initially seen as an all-powerful immortal stranger, but his generosity was revealed in sparing Gawain's life and his lack of power was revealed when he informed Gawain that he was a mere servant. The greatest illusion is illustrated by the Knights of the Round Table who give the illusion of an organization based on the principles of chivalry. However, it is revealed that they themselves are artificial and lack nobility when they wear the sinful green sash as a symbol of honor and lack the courage to accept the harmless challenge presented by the Green Knight. Sir Gawain and the Green Knight break preconceptions and provide the reader with a sense of contrast between appearance and reality through the use of magical elements and