Parmenides
One of Alexander's Greek companions who was knighted by Arthur and fought in the campaign against Count Angrs, surviving the rebellion and returning to Greece.
Introduction#
Parmenides was one of the noble companions who accompanied Alexander of Greece from Constantinople to the court of King Arthur in Cligés. Knighted by Arthur at the outbreak of Count Angrs’ rebellion, Sir Parmenides fought in the king’s service and survived the campaign before returning to Greece with Alexander.
Affiliations | Alexander’s Greek Companions
A Companion of Alexander#
Parmenides belonged to Alexander’s company of Greek noblemen, who travelled from Constantinople to Britain. At Arthur’s court, the companions were knighted before joining the campaign against Count Angrs of Windsor.
The Rebellion of Count Angrs#
Parmenides fought alongside Arthur’s forces during the rebellion, but he was not among the companions who accompanied Alexander into Windsor during the final assault that brought about Count Angrs’ capture.
Unlike several of his fellow companions, Parmenides survived the campaign and shared in Arthur’s victory.
A Greek Knight in Arthur’s Service#
Although Chrétien records no further adventures for Parmenides, his inclusion among Alexander’s companions reflects the international character of Cligés. Together, the Greek knights demonstrate the far-reaching reputation of Arthur’s court, where noble warriors from distant lands gathered in pursuit of honour and service.
Sources#
Cligés | Chrétien de Troyes, late 12th century
