Nerius
One of Alexander's Greek companions who was knighted by Arthur and survived the rebellion of Count Angrs, though he did not take part in the final assault on Windsor.
Introduction#
Nerius was one of the noble companions who accompanied Alexander of Greece from Constantinople to the court of King Arthur in Cligés.
Affiliations | Alexander’s Greek Companions
A Companion of Alexander#
Nerius belonged to Alexander’s company of Greek noblemen, who travelled from Constantinople to Britain in search of honour and adventure. Arthur welcomed the companions into his service by conferring knighthood upon them before the campaign against Count Angrs of Windsor.
The Rebellion of Count Angrs#
Nerius fought for Arthur during the rebellion, but he was not among the companions who accompanied Alexander into Windsor during the final assault on the rebel stronghold.
He nevertheless survived the campaign, unlike several of his fellow companions who fell during the fighting.
In the Arthurian Tradition#
Chrétien records no further exploits for Nerius after the rebellion. Even so, he remains one of the company of Greek knights whose arrival at Arthur’s court reflects the international character of Cligés and the fellowship shared by Alexander’s companions.
Sources#
Cligés | Chrétien de Troyes, late 12th century
