Bulfinch’s Mythology · Chapter
VI: Geraint, the Son of Erbin (Continued) explained
Arthur hunts a stag with his hounds, and the head is awarded to Enid.
What happens
Arthur hunts a stag with his hounds, and the head is awarded to Enid. Geraint returns with the defeated knight Edeyrn, who had insulted a maiden. Geraint marries Enid, and later returns to Cornwall to defend his inheritance, accompanied by many knights.
Themes in this chapter
Heroism and the Quest
Geraint's quest to avenge the insult to the maiden and his subsequent journey to defend his boundaries exemplify the heroic ideal.
Love and Transformation
Geraint's marriage to Enid and her rise in status highlight love as a transformative force.
Hospitality and Its Violation
The initial insult by the dwarf violates hospitality, which Geraint corrects, and the court's generous reception of Edeyrn restores proper conduct.
Characters to notice
- Geraint
Returns victorious with Edeyrn, marries Enid, and later departs to protect his dominions in Cornwall.
- Queen Guenever
Advises Arthur to reserve the stag's head for Geraint's return, welcomes Edeyrn, and later bestows the head upon Enid.
- King Arthur
Hunts the stag, grants mercy to Edeyrn, and reluctantly allows Geraint to leave for Cornwall.
- Enid
Daughter of Earl Ynywl, marries Geraint, receives the stag's head as a gift, and becomes highly esteemed.
- Sir Gawain
Accompanies Geraint on his journey to Cornwall and advises on the order of receiving homage.
- Sir Perceval
Listed among the knights who accompany Geraint to Cornwall.
Key passages
“And the last dog that was let loose was the favorite dog of Arthur; Cavall was his name. And he left all the other dogs behind him and turned the stag.”
Arthur's favorite hound, Cavall, was released last and outran the others to corner the stag.
Highlights the prowess of Arthur's hound in the hunt.
“And Guenever caused a watch to be set upon the ramparts for Geraint's coming.”
Guenever ordered a lookout to be posted on the walls to await Geraint's return.
Shows Guenever's anticipation and concern for Geraint's success.
“And the head of the stag was given to Enid. And thereupon her fame increased, and her friends became more in number than before.”
Enid received the stag's head, which elevated her reputation and attracted many new friends.
Symbolizes Enid's acceptance and honor at Arthur's court.