Sir Gawain Part 1 &2

So I finished reading the first 2 parts of the story. It is different from our readings in Beowulf but in a sense they have some of the same aspects. What I gather the author is still unknown in Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. It has the religious background and interprets religion throughout the plot thus far. It has this mysterious mythical side. I still am trying to figure the Green Knight out. No one knows who he is but yet he comes into King Arthur's court and he is asking for a fight. I find Sir Gawain a very courageous man to step forward willing to fight this Green Knight so that his uncle; King Arthur does not have to. The Green Knight and Sir Gawain are two extremely different characters The Green Knight is huge and stout compared to Sir Gawain with his boyish features. Who and What is this Green Knight who is so strong and does not die. he is like a supernatural being. Lines 415-443 Sir Gawain raises the ax and strikes at the Green Knight. Then there he stands headless. I find it funny how he then just picks up his head places it in his hand and still carries on a conversation. Then in lines 451 "To the Green Chapel come, I charge you, to take Such a dint as you have dealt; you have well deserved That your neck should have a knock on New Year's morn." Here the Green Knight is challenging Sir Gawain to a battle. Is the Green Knight meant to be a mean creature or just looking for someone to fight him? I am anxious to see if he the Green Knight can be killed and will Sir Gawain be the one to do this. Why is the Green Knight wanting a fight in the first place at the Green Chapel? I will have to read on to find out. When Sir Gawain speaks of the seasons; does that mean an entire year has past before he goes off to find the Green Knight? had Sir Gawain been training to fight the Green Knight up until he left??
I like imagining how Sir Gawain looks after he has placed on his gear and now takes on the look of a Knight! His boyish features covered.
Religious views are throughout the story as well. During the Christmas season Sir Gawain speaks of Mary and prays that God will protect him in his voyage. then "five joys" are mentioned which are annunciation, nativity, resurrection, ascension, and assumption.
Also I noticed within the 14-15 century story's that women are more betrayed and spoken of. line 52 "And the loveliest ladies that lived on earth ever" then also women are spoken off in lines 941-970
I'm looking forward to the rest of the reading. Can't wait to see what happens next