Balinant, Belinans, Belynant, Belynaunt
King of South Wales and father of Arthur’s Sir Dodinel in the Vulgate Merlin. Though married to a beautiful woman named Eglantine (Eglante), daughter of Machen of the Lost Island, he fathered Dodinel on his own niece.
He ruled Lindesores and the Narrow Borderland, and his brother was King Tradelmant of North Wales.
His land was invaded by Saxons, and he allied with other kings (most in rebellion against Arthur) to oppose them. After suffering a defeat at the battle of Clarence, Belinant and the other princes joined with Arthur and expelled the Saxons for good. He later led a battalion of soldiers in Arthur’s war against Rome.
The Vulgate Lancelot lists a King Bernant of North Wales, who may be the same character. There may also be a connection to Celinant.
He may be, in origin, the Celtic god Beli.
See also
Sorgales | The Legend of King Arthur
Sugales | The Legend of King Arthur
Sources
Vulgate Merlin | 1220-1235
Le Livre d’Artus | Early 13th century