Enid

Also known as: the maiden · Family: Cornwall · Role: bride of Geraint · First appears: GERAINT THE SON OF ERBIN 4

At the edge of the Forest, Enid was struck across the face and eyes by the dwarf until she bled. The next day, Geraint the son of Erbin received permission to challenge for her and promised lifelong love if he survived; they were then to attend the tournament together, with his horse and arms prepared.

In chapter 4, Arthur gave Enid to Geraint the son of Erbin, and “from that time she became his bride.” She was the daughter of Earl Ynywl, and was loved and befriended by Gwenhwyvar, Arthur, and Geraint the son of Erbin. After Geraint the son of Erbin left Arthur’s Court to take control of his dominions, Earl offered Enid his earldom and himself, but she remained faithful to Geraint the son of Erbin: “yonder man was the first to whom my faith was ever pledged; and shall I prove inconstant to him?”

Later, Gwenhwyvar and her women welcomed Enid and changed her riding dress, while Gwalchmai greeted her gladly. Earl of Limours offered her an earldom and struck her across the ear, but she refused his consolation; Geraint the son of Erbin told her to go on before him, and she did so. At the Baron’s palace, Little King protected Enid and Geraint the son of Erbin and secured medical assistance. She then journeyed joyfully with Little King, was received by Earl Owain, and witnessed the hosts reconcile before Geraint the son of Erbin returned to his dominions and reigned prosperously.