NIGHTBRINGER | The Arthurian Encyclopedia

Gromer Somer Joure

Grim Baron of Castle Hewin, Gromerson Erioure, Grommer Grummerson, Gromore Somir Joure

While hunting alone in Inglewood in Scotland, Arthur once fell into the power of Sir Gromer Somer Joure, who threatened to take vengeance because, Gromer claimed, Arthur had wrongfully given some of his lands to Gawain. Gromer finally agreed to let Arthur go for a year, on Arthur’s parole to return at the end of that time prepared to meet his death if he could not answer the question,

What is it that women most desire?

Arthur got the answer from Dame Ragnell, who turned out to be Gromer’s sister; as soon as Gromer heard it, he cursed Ragnell as the only one who could have taught it to the King.

The Wedding of Sir Gawaine and Dame Ragnell, the source of the above information, leaves the impression that Arthur and Gromer parted enemies, the King vowed never to fall into Gromer’s power again. Malory, however, includes Gromer as a Knight of the Round Table, and mentions “Gromore Somir Joure” as one of the knights who accompanied Mordred and Agravaine in their attempt to trap Lancelot with the Queen, and who were killed during Lancelot’s escape. All these knights

were of Scotland, outher of Sir Gawaine's kin, either well-willers to his brethren.

This suggests that somewhere along the line Gromer became reconciled with Arthur and Gawain and joined Arthur’s court, possibly as a companion of the Round Table.

Glennie refers to the basic story, calling Gromer only “The Grim Baron of Castle Hewin” and Ragnell only “The Foule Ladye”, and pinpointing Arthur’s meeting with the Grim Baron at Tarn Wadling in Inglewood.

Gromer Somer Joure is sometimes depicted with his own shield. The design of his shield can vary, but it often incorporates symbols or imagery reflecting his cunning and his role in the story.


See also
Gromer | The Legend of King Arthur


Sources
The Wedding of Sir Gawain and Dame Ragnell | 15th century
Le Morte Darthur | Sir Thomas Malory, 1469-1470