Erec and Enide: Analysis of Major Characters
"Erec and Enide" is a narrative that centers on the journey of Erec, a noble knight of King Arthur's Round Table, and his bride, Enide, known for her unmatched beauty. Initially captivated by love, Erec neglects his knightly duties, leading to whispers of cowardice among the people. Enide, concerned about her husband's reputation, challenges him to reclaim his honor, prompting a quest filled with adventures and challenges. Throughout their journey, she exhibits courage and loyalty, proving to be a vital companion. Other notable characters include Guivret the Little, who transforms from a challenger to a friend, and Count Galoin, whose nefarious intentions toward Enide are thwarted by her wisdom. The story also features King Arthur, the iconic leader of the Round Table, and other knights who shape the chivalric world Erec navigates. This tale intricately weaves themes of love, honor, and bravery, showcasing the complexities of relationships and the ideals of knighthood in medieval literature.
Erec and Enide: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Chrétien de Troyes
Genre: Poetry
Locale: Arthurian England
Plot: Arthurian romance
Time: Sixth century
Erec (eh-REHK), a fair and brave knight of the Round Table. In a town where he is lodging, he meets his host's daughter, the beautiful damsel Enide. He returns with her to King Arthur's court and makes her his bride. So enamored is he of the fair lady that he neglects all knightly pursuits in favor of dalliance with her. When the report reaches him that the people think him a coward, he sets out with Enide on a journey of knight-errantry during which he bears himself with such bravery that he returns to King Arthur's court with honor. On his father's death, he becomes king of his own land.
Enide (eh-NEED), the most beautiful damsel in Christendom, Erec's bride. After she hears reports that Erec's dalliance with her has caused him to be suspected of cowardice, she taunts him about the change that love has made in him. When he angrily sets forth on a journey to prove his valor and her love, she accompanies him, bravely shares his adventures, and returns triumphant with him to King Arthur's court.
Guivret the Little (gweev-REHT), a knight who challenges Erec to combat and, after a brave fight on both sides, becomes his friend and benefactor.
Count Galoin (gah-LWAN), a nobleman so smitten by Enide's beauty that he desires to make her mistress of all his lands. His plot to take Erec's life is thwarted by Enide; the defeated count gallantly praises the lady's prudence and virtue.
Evrain (ehv-RAYN), a king whose land is delivered from thralldom by Erec.
King Arthur, the leader of the Round Table.
Guinevere (gwehn-eh-VEER), his queen.
King Lac, Erec's father.
Sir Gawain (gah-WAYN) and Sir Kay, knights of the Round Table.
Yder (ee-DUR), a haughty knight challenged and defeated by Erec.
Cadoc of Tabriol (kah-DOHK), a knight rescued from giants by Erec.