Geraint the son of Erbin

Also known as: Geraint · Family: unknown · Role: knight · First appears: GERAINT THE SON OF ERBIN 1

In chapter 1, Geraint the son of Erbin travels with Gwenhwyvar, who calls him her most agreeable companion, until the dwarf strikes him and bloodies his scarf. Geraint then departs to pursue the knight and obtain arms for an encounter. In chapter 2, he receives permission to challenge for Enid and promises her lifelong love if he survives; in chapter 3, he fights Edeyrn the son of Nudd, while Erbin is identified as his parent and Earl Ynywl addresses him as “Chieftain.” By chapter 4, Enid has become his bride, and Geraint is presented to Gwenhwyvar as her best and most valiant servant.

In chapter 5, Arthur, his cousin and lord, advises him to return to his dominions and defend their boundaries. Geraint leaves Arthur’s Court with many companions, including Gwalchmai and Edeyrn the son of Nudd, and Erbin transfers authority over the dominions to him: “Into thy hands will I give them, said Erbin.” Geraint receives the homage of the people of Cornwall and keeps possession of the furthest boundary, but for a long time gives up his nobles, hunting, and amusements to remain privately with Enid.

In chapter 7, Enid maintains that Geraint was the first man to whom her faith was pledged when Earl threatens him and seeks to keep her. In chapter 8, Geraint defeats Earl Dwrm and fights Little King, whom he spares on the condition that he become his ally. In chapter 9, Geraint’s fealty to Arthur is affirmed, and he clashes with Kai and Gwalchmai before Morgan Tud and his disciples are brought to him. In chapter 10, he is attacked by Earl of Limours after the Earl strikes Enid; Geraint revives at her cry, while Little King protects them and secures medical care, and Arthur permits Geraint to depart after his recovery. In chapter 11, Geraint chooses the lower road, enters the hedge of mist, and demands that the enchanted games, mist, magic, and enchantment end; at his horn blast the mist vanishes, the hosts reconcile, and he returns with Enid to his dominions, where he thereafter reigns prosperously.