Dragon Knight
Encyclopedia
The Dragon Knight is a series of fantasy novel
s by Gordon R. Dickson
(1923–2001). The first book informed the 1982 animated movie The Flight of Dragons
by Rankin/Bass
, but was previously published as a short story, St. Dragon and the George. The title here refers in part to an in-universe nomenclature, wherein the story's dragon
s use the name "george" as a synonym
or substitute of "human", after 'St. George the Dragon-Slayer', and in part a reference to the latter.
Baron
Sir James Eckert de Bois de Malencontri et Riveroak, a.k.a. "the Dragon Knight" or sometimes "Sir Dragon".
The protagonist
of the series, a minor academe originating in the 20th century, who to save his fiancée, Angela "Angie" Farell, follows her by astral projection
to a parallel universe
resembling medieval England
, where his psyche
is lodged in the body of a dragon named Gorbash. On consultation with the mystic Carolinus (see below), he is sent to rescue Angie from the immaterial evil
known as the 'Dark Powers', and is mistitled a Baron by Carolinus (presumably to give him legal freedom of movement). At the end of The Dragon and the George
, Jim regains his human form and obtains the land and titles of the deposed antagonist
Sir Hugh, who re-appears later in the series.
In The Dragon Knight
, Jim rules the estate Malencontri, with Angie as his wife; but finds himself capable of becoming a dragon, without the intervention of Gorbash, and becomes Carolinus' apprentice to control this ability. Having learnt this control enables several extraordinary deeds in the service of England, and later makes Jim eligible to join the 'Collegiate of Magickians' whereof Carolinus is a founder (a subplot
emphasised in later books).
Jim and Angie's closest friend; an idealistic, impoverished, zealous knight
, present as Jim's companion throughout the series. His understanding of the medieval world proves a great asset to Jim, who is occasionally perplexed by its customs.
Jim's mentor
, and one of the three highest-rated (AAA+) magicians in the world. In some ways the modern stereotype
or archetype
of a Wizard, in that he is a wise, irascible, talkative old man capable of altering reality almost at will, consulted by every species of life-form, and often in conversation with intangible 'Powers'. Revealed in later books to be a founder of the Collegiate of Magickians to which he belongs. Noted for addressing every character, including royalty, by personal names or nicknames, without reference to title, and for extensive knowledge of anachronism
s.
A Welsh longbow
man, likely the greatest in the world, and Jim's ally. Descended in part from a long-extinct line of royalty
, associated with the 'Drowned Hundred' of folklore
. Married after the first book to the female archer known as Danielle.
A wolf capable of speech and noted for an unrepentantly-abrasive character, distinguished by a strong nationalism
, possessiveness of territory
, and an unceasing pragmatism
. Said to be of exceptional size
, explained by descent from the Dire Wolves. Able to disappear and move without being seen or heard, even when watched. Ally to all the main characters, including Jim.
Betrothed and later married to Jim, Angie appears as a damsel in distress
in the first book, and later as chatelaine
of Malencontri. Her role has varying degrees of importance, in that being a lady
, she is required to remain at her own estate while Jim is away; to oversee all that occurs in it; and to maintain custom and courtesy
in all situations. When the action is set in Malencontri, she is Jim's inseparable companion. Most of the books end with their re-union after an arduous adventure. As a rule, Angie takes negative stimuli with more poise than Jim, who is continually frustrated by the situations he encounters.
A dragon of the 'Cliffside' dragon colony, whose body was initially inhabited by Jim Eckert until Jim could bring his 'george' form into the medieval world. Not a companion as much as an alternate form assumed by Jim. Later a friend to the latter among the Cliffside dragons.
The "maternal grand-uncle" of the dragon Gorbash, and thus in some degree Jim's grand-uncle as well. Advisor to Jim/Gorbash throughout the first book (in which the two share a body). Depicted as comically pompous, but possessed of great courage
and able to overawe the other dragons of his colony in any debate. Killed in the first book fighting a 'renegade' named Bryagh, who had earlier given Lady Angela to the Dark Powers.
A wetland-dwelling "mere-dragon" whose physique, like that of his compatriots, had long been poisoned by the presence of the Dark Powers, so that they are smaller and weaker than other dragons. Fought alongside Smrgol to kill the dragon Bryagh. Though initially cowardly and weak, Secoh comes to grow in confidence, and is one of Jim's vital allies among the dragon community.
An itinerant archer, and leader of a band of similar men. Responsible for skirmishing against the forces of Sir Hugh outside the immediate vicinity of the Loathly Tower, the headquarters of the Dark Powers.
Archer, daughter to Giles o' the Wold, and close friend to Aragh. Married to Dafydd after the first book. Her role thereafter is very small, in that she is mentioned by name, but usually in connection with her husband and their children, who are said to be numerous.
A female Magickian, described as "cadaverous-looking" and therefore depicted as severe of manner, and close colleague of Carolinus, KinetetE appears as Jim's magical advisor whenever Carolinus is unavailable. She is equal in rank to the latter, and appears initially as his judge in a magical contest. Addressed familiarly by Carolinus and Angie as "Kin".
Chatelaine of Castle Malvern, betrothed to Sir Brian while they both wait for her father (Sir Orrin) to return home for permission to marry. Depicted as one martial in character. Married to Sir Brian in The Dragon and the Fair Maid of Kent.
A powerful and intelligent knight, who often enlists Jim to conduct difficult and unusual missions. Considered very handsome by his contemporaries, and therefore sometimes the object of Jim's jealousy
when seen as too familiar with Angie.
The hot-tempered, but good-natured son of the King, later identified as the historical 'Black Prince'. Edward owes Jim and Brian his freedom from captivity by the renegade Magickian Malvinne, and is known to speak on their behalf before the King.
The weak-willed, alcoholic monarch of England. Although he is Jim's superior and generally can be considered an ally, the King is impulsive and indecisive; character traits which occasionally put James and Angela's lives in danger.
A young, but brave and loyal kitchen maid at Malencontri. Sometimes a source of worry to Sir James and Lady Angela, but otherwise considered an asset.
A humaniform, amphibious Giant
, identified in a dialogue
as a “Sea Devil”. Described as essentially cone-shaped, in that he is largest in diameter
at the head, and narrowest at the feet, with each area of the body narrower than the one above it. An ally to Sir James and Lady Angela, and able to travel from any body of water to any other regardless of whether any physical connection exists between them. Usually depicted as amiable, cheerful, and slightly simple-minded, as well as affectionate and respectful of all whom he encounters.
The castle hobgoblin
at Malencontri, and therefore sometimes identified as 'Malencontri hob'. His role is essentially that of a brownie
in relation to the larger castle
; but he is also Jim's messenger among the other mythical creatures, and sometimes a source of information. Implied to be immortal, in that he was originally a true goblin
banished from the 'Kingdom of Demons' for his refusal to take part in wars, some centuries prior to the story.
Jim and Angie's infant ward, introduced in The Dragon, the Earl, and the Troll, and said in later books to supply in Angie's mind the need of a son.
A Selkie
, companion to Jim and Brian.
A malicious force, chief antagonist of the series, having an especial grudge against humans and magicians, that unceasingly attempts to set the world into either boredom
or chaos. Their place of power is centered at Loathly Tower and all immediate terrain, within England.
The former lord of Malencontri, much disliked by both Aragh and Sir Brian. Betrayed England to enlist in the services of the Dark Powers, and later fled England, to re-appear in later books. Deposed by Jim/Gorbash and their allies. Notable for having scarred Lady Geronde, so that she remains 'disfigured' according to the standards of her society
until her marriage to Sir Brian, whereat she is restored to her former appearance by an act of magic considered unusual by the other characters.
The King's royal cousin. Power-hungry and ruthless, the Earl frequently attempts various plots to take the throne, even as far as attacking the mythical land of Lyonesse
. The Earl regards the Dragon Knight and his companions as a constant annoyance to his schemes, which they consistently dismantle.
The Earl's witch ally. Robert Falon's malevolent aunt. Shown as a relatively benign character in The Dragon, the Earl, and the Troll, wherein she is introduced; but depicted as malicious in later books.
Renegade dragon who left the Cliffside dragon community (whereof Smrgol and Gorbash were members) to serve the Dark Powers. Killed by Smrgol and Secoh.
A rogue magickian in league with the Dark Powers. A long-time rival of Carolinus. Defeated by Jim and company.
Matriarchal, rodentine creatures that impel terror in their intended victims by production of high-frequency sound. These sounds have no effect on wolves, but take full effect on dragons and men alike.
Flying creatures resembling those of classic mythology, whose bites contain lethal venom
.
A large, mainly-featureless creature with thick skin and many rows of teeth. Defeated by Jim and Brian.
A large, dim-witted, fireproof humanoid noted for impressive gripping power but limited movement at the shoulder. Smrgol and Jim/Gorbash are among a very few dragons to have slain one.
An amphibious reptile
of tremendous size, considered traditional enemy of the dragons. One of these, by magical intervention, leads an invasion (in The Dragon at War) of England to destroy the dragons of England, but fails when fought and beaten by Jim Eckert.
A Kraken
, initially depicted as benign advisor to all marine and amphibious life, historical and mythical, but later revealed to be ambitious, and capable of magic, and desirous, according to Carolinus, "to rule the world". It is Granfer that permits a large-scale invasion of England by the sea-serpents, and who connects them to the Italio-French sorcerer Julio Ecotti for this purpose. Banished by Carolinus.
A 'Great Demon', antagonist of The Dragon and the Djinn.
Antagonists of The Dragon and the Fair Maid of Kent, wherein they appear as a cause of the Black Death
's proliferation in England, well before the accepted historic date. Especial enemies of the Castle Hobgoblins, whom they expelled from the 'Kingdom of Demons' centuries before the events of the books.
University professor of various qualifications, whose experiments in astral projection
transported Angie, and later the psyche
and memories of Jim, into the medieval period. Considered "an unsavory character" by Jim, owing to their former rivalry for Angie's hand in marriage
. Jim's instructor in hypnosis
.
Owner of an inn, of moderate importance to the first book.
Chinese Magickian, who appears initially in The Dragon at War to challenge Jim's use of hypnosis
on grounds that the latter was "Oriental magic" and ought have been taught by "a qualified Oriental instructor". Disproven by Carolinus. Son later appears as a specialist consulted by Carolinus, and in extension thereof by Jim.
Finnish magician, of a moderate rank (identified as 'B+') slightly higher than that of Jim, who appears among those observing Carolinus answer the challenge posed by Son Won Phon, and who prevents the injured Sir Brian and Dafydd ap Hywel from hemhorrage. Amiable, easy-mannered, and slightly condescending toward Jim, whom he addresses as "youngster" in reference to Jim's newcomer status among magickians.
Self-proclaimed "King of the Trolls", this is a large and ancient troll
living underneath the castle of an Earl. Although solitary, he maintains dominance over all the trolls in the region, and is therefore considered their superior. Addressed by Agatha Falon as "Grandfather" by reason of the years she spent as his ward.
Intangibly-constructed, nearly-omnipresent entity of immense influence and wry humor, called the Accounting Office in later books, whose purpose is largely (though not exclusively) to monitor the use of magic by Magickians of the Collegiate, and thus to determine whether or not they have the right to accomplish certain magical feats. Usually appears as a "bass voice" approximately one meter from the ground, but can appear speaking as if from or through the local environment itself. Invoked by Carolinus early on, it does not take revenge on him for speaking to itself familiarly, but is addressed with deference by Jim.
A force of nature that influences events to follow a certain monotonous order. Opposed and balanced by Chance.
A force of nature that influences events toward chaos. Opposed and balanced by History.
Novel
A novel is a book of long narrative in literary prose. The genre has historical roots both in the fields of the medieval and early modern romance and in the tradition of the novella. The latter supplied the present generic term in the late 18th century....
s by Gordon R. Dickson
Gordon R. Dickson
Gordon Rupert Dickson was an American science fiction author.- Biography :Dickson was born in Edmonton, Alberta, in 1923. After the death of his father, he moved with his mother to Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 1937...
(1923–2001). The first book informed the 1982 animated movie The Flight of Dragons
The Flight of Dragons
The Flight of Dragons is a 1982 animated movie produced by Jules Bass and Arthur Rankin, Jr. and loosely combining the speculative natural history book of the same name by Peter Dickinson with the novel The Dragon and the George by Gordon R. Dickson. The film centres upon a quest undertaken to...
by Rankin/Bass
Rankin/Bass
Rankin/Bass Productions, Inc. , also known as Rankin/Bass Animated Entertainment, was an American production company, known for its seasonal television specials, particularly its work in stop-motion animation. The pre-1974 library is currently owned by Classic Media,while the post-1974 library is...
, but was previously published as a short story, St. Dragon and the George. The title here refers in part to an in-universe nomenclature, wherein the story's dragon
Dragon
A dragon is a legendary creature, typically with serpentine or reptilian traits, that feature in the myths of many cultures. There are two distinct cultural traditions of dragons: the European dragon, derived from European folk traditions and ultimately related to Greek and Middle Eastern...
s use the name "george" as a synonym
Synonym
Synonyms are different words with almost identical or similar meanings. Words that are synonyms are said to be synonymous, and the state of being a synonym is called synonymy. The word comes from Ancient Greek syn and onoma . The words car and automobile are synonyms...
or substitute of "human", after 'St. George the Dragon-Slayer', and in part a reference to the latter.
Main Characters
- Jim Eckert
Baron
Baron
Baron is a title of nobility. The word baron comes from Old French baron, itself from Old High German and Latin baro meaning " man, warrior"; it merged with cognate Old English beorn meaning "nobleman"...
Sir James Eckert de Bois de Malencontri et Riveroak, a.k.a. "the Dragon Knight" or sometimes "Sir Dragon".
The protagonist
Protagonist
A protagonist is the main character of a literary, theatrical, cinematic, or musical narrative, around whom the events of the narrative's plot revolve and with whom the audience is intended to most identify...
of the series, a minor academe originating in the 20th century, who to save his fiancée, Angela "Angie" Farell, follows her by astral projection
Astral projection
Astral projection is an interpretation of out-of-body experience that assumes the existence of an "astral body" separate from the physical body and capable of traveling outside it...
to a parallel universe
Parallel universe (fiction)
A parallel universe or alternative reality is a hypothetical self-contained separate reality coexisting with one's own. A specific group of parallel universes is called a "multiverse", although this term can also be used to describe the possible parallel universes that constitute reality...
resembling medieval England
England
England is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. It shares land borders with Scotland to the north and Wales to the west; the Irish Sea is to the north west, the Celtic Sea to the south west, with the North Sea to the east and the English Channel to the south separating it from continental...
, where his psyche
Psyche (psychology)
The word psyche has a long history of use in psychology and philosophy, dating back to ancient times, and has been one of the fundamental concepts for understanding human nature from a scientific point of view. The English word soul is sometimes used synonymously, especially in older...
is lodged in the body of a dragon named Gorbash. On consultation with the mystic Carolinus (see below), he is sent to rescue Angie from the immaterial evil
Evil
Evil is the violation of, or intent to violate, some moral code. Evil is usually seen as the dualistic opposite of good. Definitions of evil vary along with analysis of its root motive causes, however general actions commonly considered evil include: conscious and deliberate wrongdoing,...
known as the 'Dark Powers', and is mistitled a Baron by Carolinus (presumably to give him legal freedom of movement). At the end of The Dragon and the George
The Dragon and the George
The Dragon and the George is a 1976 fantasy novel by Gordon R. Dickson, the first in his "Dragon Knight" series. A shorter form of the story was previously published as the short story, "St...
, Jim regains his human form and obtains the land and titles of the deposed antagonist
Antagonist
An antagonist is a character, group of characters, or institution, that represents the opposition against which the protagonist must contend...
Sir Hugh, who re-appears later in the series.
In The Dragon Knight
The Dragon Knight
The Dragon Knight is the second book of Gordon R. Dickson's Dragon Knight series. The novel begins 5 months after the battle at Loathly Tower displayed in The Dragon and The George.-Plot introduction:...
, Jim rules the estate Malencontri, with Angie as his wife; but finds himself capable of becoming a dragon, without the intervention of Gorbash, and becomes Carolinus' apprentice to control this ability. Having learnt this control enables several extraordinary deeds in the service of England, and later makes Jim eligible to join the 'Collegiate of Magickians' whereof Carolinus is a founder (a subplot
Subplot
A subplot is a secondary plot strand that is a supporting side story for any story or the main plot. Subplots may connect to main plots, in either time and place or in thematic significance...
emphasised in later books).
- Sir Brian Neville-Smythe
Jim and Angie's closest friend; an idealistic, impoverished, zealous knight
Knight
A knight was a member of a class of lower nobility in the High Middle Ages.By the Late Middle Ages, the rank had become associated with the ideals of chivalry, a code of conduct for the perfect courtly Christian warrior....
, present as Jim's companion throughout the series. His understanding of the medieval world proves a great asset to Jim, who is occasionally perplexed by its customs.
- Silvanus Carolinus
Jim's mentor
Mentor
In Greek mythology, Mentor was the son of Alcimus or Anchialus. In his old age Mentor was a friend of Odysseus who placed Mentor and Odysseus' foster-brother Eumaeus in charge of his son Telemachus, and of Odysseus' palace, when Odysseus left for the Trojan War.When Athena visited Telemachus she...
, and one of the three highest-rated (AAA+) magicians in the world. In some ways the modern stereotype
Stereotype
A stereotype is a popular belief about specific social groups or types of individuals. The concepts of "stereotype" and "prejudice" are often confused with many other different meanings...
or archetype
Archetype
An archetype is a universally understood symbol or term or pattern of behavior, a prototype upon which others are copied, patterned, or emulated...
of a Wizard, in that he is a wise, irascible, talkative old man capable of altering reality almost at will, consulted by every species of life-form, and often in conversation with intangible 'Powers'. Revealed in later books to be a founder of the Collegiate of Magickians to which he belongs. Noted for addressing every character, including royalty, by personal names or nicknames, without reference to title, and for extensive knowledge of anachronism
Anachronism
An anachronism—from the Greek ανά and χρόνος — is an inconsistency in some chronological arrangement, especially a chronological misplacing of persons, events, objects, or customs in regard to each other...
s.
- Dafydd Ap Hywel
A Welsh longbow
Longbow
A longbow is a type of bow that is tall ; this will allow its user a fairly long draw, at least to the jaw....
man, likely the greatest in the world, and Jim's ally. Descended in part from a long-extinct line of royalty
Royal family
A royal family is the extended family of a king or queen regnant. The term imperial family appropriately describes the extended family of an emperor or empress, while the terms "ducal family", "grand ducal family" or "princely family" are more appropriate to describe the relatives of a reigning...
, associated with the 'Drowned Hundred' of folklore
Folklore
Folklore consists of legends, music, oral history, proverbs, jokes, popular beliefs, fairy tales and customs that are the traditions of a culture, subculture, or group. It is also the set of practices through which those expressive genres are shared. The study of folklore is sometimes called...
. Married after the first book to the female archer known as Danielle.
- Aragh(changed to Aargh in later books)
A wolf capable of speech and noted for an unrepentantly-abrasive character, distinguished by a strong nationalism
Nationalism
Nationalism is a political ideology that involves a strong identification of a group of individuals with a political entity defined in national terms, i.e. a nation. In the 'modernist' image of the nation, it is nationalism that creates national identity. There are various definitions for what...
, possessiveness of territory
Territory (animal)
In ethology the term territory refers to any sociographical area that an animal of a particular species consistently defends against conspecifics...
, and an unceasing pragmatism
Pragmatism
Pragmatism is a philosophical tradition centered on the linking of practice and theory. It describes a process where theory is extracted from practice, and applied back to practice to form what is called intelligent practice...
. Said to be of exceptional size
Dimension
In physics and mathematics, the dimension of a space or object is informally defined as the minimum number of coordinates needed to specify any point within it. Thus a line has a dimension of one because only one coordinate is needed to specify a point on it...
, explained by descent from the Dire Wolves. Able to disappear and move without being seen or heard, even when watched. Ally to all the main characters, including Jim.
Secondary Characters
- Lady Angela 'Angie' Eckert
Betrothed and later married to Jim, Angie appears as a damsel in distress
Damsel in distress
The subject of the damsel in distress, or persecuted maiden, is a classic theme in world literature, art, and film. She is usually a beautiful young woman placed in a dire predicament by a villain or monster and who requires a hero to achieve her rescue. She has become a stock character of fiction,...
in the first book, and later as chatelaine
Châtelain
Châtelain was originally merely the French equivalent of the English castellan, i.e. the commander of a castle....
of Malencontri. Her role has varying degrees of importance, in that being a lady
Lady
The word lady is a polite term for a woman, specifically the female equivalent to, or spouse of, a lord or gentleman, and in many contexts a term for any adult woman...
, she is required to remain at her own estate while Jim is away; to oversee all that occurs in it; and to maintain custom and courtesy
Courtesy
Courtesy comes from old french 'courteis' is gentle politeness and courtly manners. In the Middle Ages in Europe, the behaviour expected of the gentry was compiled in courtesy books...
in all situations. When the action is set in Malencontri, she is Jim's inseparable companion. Most of the books end with their re-union after an arduous adventure. As a rule, Angie takes negative stimuli with more poise than Jim, who is continually frustrated by the situations he encounters.
- Gorbash
A dragon of the 'Cliffside' dragon colony, whose body was initially inhabited by Jim Eckert until Jim could bring his 'george' form into the medieval world. Not a companion as much as an alternate form assumed by Jim. Later a friend to the latter among the Cliffside dragons.
- Smrgol
The "maternal grand-uncle" of the dragon Gorbash, and thus in some degree Jim's grand-uncle as well. Advisor to Jim/Gorbash throughout the first book (in which the two share a body). Depicted as comically pompous, but possessed of great courage
Courage
Courage is the ability to confront fear, pain, danger, uncertainty, or intimidation...
and able to overawe the other dragons of his colony in any debate. Killed in the first book fighting a 'renegade' named Bryagh, who had earlier given Lady Angela to the Dark Powers.
- Secoh
A wetland-dwelling "mere-dragon" whose physique, like that of his compatriots, had long been poisoned by the presence of the Dark Powers, so that they are smaller and weaker than other dragons. Fought alongside Smrgol to kill the dragon Bryagh. Though initially cowardly and weak, Secoh comes to grow in confidence, and is one of Jim's vital allies among the dragon community.
- Giles o' the Wold
An itinerant archer, and leader of a band of similar men. Responsible for skirmishing against the forces of Sir Hugh outside the immediate vicinity of the Loathly Tower, the headquarters of the Dark Powers.
- Danielle o' the Wold
Archer, daughter to Giles o' the Wold, and close friend to Aragh. Married to Dafydd after the first book. Her role thereafter is very small, in that she is mentioned by name, but usually in connection with her husband and their children, who are said to be numerous.
- KinetetE
A female Magickian, described as "cadaverous-looking" and therefore depicted as severe of manner, and close colleague of Carolinus, KinetetE appears as Jim's magical advisor whenever Carolinus is unavailable. She is equal in rank to the latter, and appears initially as his judge in a magical contest. Addressed familiarly by Carolinus and Angie as "Kin".
Minor Characters
- Lady Geronde Isabel de Chaney
Chatelaine of Castle Malvern, betrothed to Sir Brian while they both wait for her father (Sir Orrin) to return home for permission to marry. Depicted as one martial in character. Married to Sir Brian in The Dragon and the Fair Maid of Kent.
- Sir John Chandos
A powerful and intelligent knight, who often enlists Jim to conduct difficult and unusual missions. Considered very handsome by his contemporaries, and therefore sometimes the object of Jim's jealousy
Jealousy
Jealousy is a second emotion and typically refers to the negative thoughts and feelings of insecurity, fear, and anxiety over an anticipated loss of something that the person values, particularly in reference to a human connection. Jealousy often consists of a combination of presenting emotions...
when seen as too familiar with Angie.
- Prince Edward Plantagenet
The hot-tempered, but good-natured son of the King, later identified as the historical 'Black Prince'. Edward owes Jim and Brian his freedom from captivity by the renegade Magickian Malvinne, and is known to speak on their behalf before the King.
- King Edward III Plantagenet
The weak-willed, alcoholic monarch of England. Although he is Jim's superior and generally can be considered an ally, the King is impulsive and indecisive; character traits which occasionally put James and Angela's lives in danger.
- May Heather
A young, but brave and loyal kitchen maid at Malencontri. Sometimes a source of worry to Sir James and Lady Angela, but otherwise considered an asset.
- Rrrnlf
A humaniform, amphibious Giant
Giant (mythology)
The mythology and legends of many different cultures include monsters of human appearance but prodigious size and strength. "Giant" is the English word commonly used for such beings, derived from one of the most famed examples: the gigantes of Greek mythology.In various Indo-European mythologies,...
, identified in a dialogue
Dialogue
Dialogue is a literary and theatrical form consisting of a written or spoken conversational exchange between two or more people....
as a “Sea Devil”. Described as essentially cone-shaped, in that he is largest in diameter
Diameter
In geometry, a diameter of a circle is any straight line segment that passes through the center of the circle and whose endpoints are on the circle. The diameters are the longest chords of the circle...
at the head, and narrowest at the feet, with each area of the body narrower than the one above it. An ally to Sir James and Lady Angela, and able to travel from any body of water to any other regardless of whether any physical connection exists between them. Usually depicted as amiable, cheerful, and slightly simple-minded, as well as affectionate and respectful of all whom he encounters.
- Hob
The castle hobgoblin
Hobgoblin
Hobgoblin is a term typically applied in folktales to describe a friendly but troublesome creature of the Seelie Court.The most commonly known hobgoblin is the character Puck in Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream. Puck, however, is only another name given to a much older character named Robin...
at Malencontri, and therefore sometimes identified as 'Malencontri hob'. His role is essentially that of a brownie
Brownie (folklore)
A brownie/brounie or urisk or brùnaidh, ùruisg, or gruagach is a legendary creature popular in folklore around Scotland and England...
in relation to the larger castle
Castle
A castle is a type of fortified structure built in Europe and the Middle East during the Middle Ages by European nobility. Scholars debate the scope of the word castle, but usually consider it to be the private fortified residence of a lord or noble...
; but he is also Jim's messenger among the other mythical creatures, and sometimes a source of information. Implied to be immortal, in that he was originally a true goblin
Goblin
A goblin is a legendary evil or mischievous illiterate creature, a grotesquely evil or evil-like phantom.They are attributed with various abilities, temperaments and appearances depending on the story and country of origin. In some cases, goblins have been classified as constantly annoying little...
banished from the 'Kingdom of Demons' for his refusal to take part in wars, some centuries prior to the story.
- Robert Falon
Jim and Angie's infant ward, introduced in The Dragon, the Earl, and the Troll, and said in later books to supply in Angie's mind the need of a son.
- Sir Giles de Mer
A Selkie
Selkie
Selkies are mythological creatures that are found in Faroese, Icelandic, Irish, and Scottish folklore....
, companion to Jim and Brian.
Villains
- The Dark Powers
A malicious force, chief antagonist of the series, having an especial grudge against humans and magicians, that unceasingly attempts to set the world into either boredom
Boredom
Boredom is an emotional state experienced when an individual is without any activity or is not interested in their surroundings. The first recorded use of the word boredom is in the novel Bleak House by Charles Dickens, written in 1852, in which it appears six times, although the expression to be a...
or chaos. Their place of power is centered at Loathly Tower and all immediate terrain, within England.
- Sir Hugh de Bois
The former lord of Malencontri, much disliked by both Aragh and Sir Brian. Betrayed England to enlist in the services of the Dark Powers, and later fled England, to re-appear in later books. Deposed by Jim/Gorbash and their allies. Notable for having scarred Lady Geronde, so that she remains 'disfigured' according to the standards of her society
Society
A society, or a human society, is a group of people related to each other through persistent relations, or a large social grouping sharing the same geographical or virtual territory, subject to the same political authority and dominant cultural expectations...
until her marriage to Sir Brian, whereat she is restored to her former appearance by an act of magic considered unusual by the other characters.
- The EarlEarlAn earl is a member of the nobility. The title is Anglo-Saxon, akin to the Scandinavian form jarl, and meant "chieftain", particularly a chieftain set to rule a territory in a king's stead. In Scandinavia, it became obsolete in the Middle Ages and was replaced with duke...
of CumberlandCumberlandCumberland is a historic county of North West England, on the border with Scotland, from the 12th century until 1974. It formed an administrative county from 1889 to 1974 and now forms part of Cumbria....
The King's royal cousin. Power-hungry and ruthless, the Earl frequently attempts various plots to take the throne, even as far as attacking the mythical land of Lyonesse
Lyonesse
Lyonesse is a country in Arthurian legend, particularly in the story of Tristan and Iseult. Said to border Cornwall, it is most notable as the home of the hero Tristan, whose father was king...
. The Earl regards the Dragon Knight and his companions as a constant annoyance to his schemes, which they consistently dismantle.
- Lady Agatha Falon
The Earl's witch ally. Robert Falon's malevolent aunt. Shown as a relatively benign character in The Dragon, the Earl, and the Troll, wherein she is introduced; but depicted as malicious in later books.
- Bryagh
Renegade dragon who left the Cliffside dragon community (whereof Smrgol and Gorbash were members) to serve the Dark Powers. Killed by Smrgol and Secoh.
- Malvinne
A rogue magickian in league with the Dark Powers. A long-time rival of Carolinus. Defeated by Jim and company.
- Sandmirks
Matriarchal, rodentine creatures that impel terror in their intended victims by production of high-frequency sound. These sounds have no effect on wolves, but take full effect on dragons and men alike.
- Harpies
Flying creatures resembling those of classic mythology, whose bites contain lethal venom
Venom
Venom is the general term referring to any variety of toxins used by certain types of animals that inject it into their victims by the means of a bite or a sting...
.
- Worm
A large, mainly-featureless creature with thick skin and many rows of teeth. Defeated by Jim and Brian.
- OgreOgreAn ogre is a large, cruel, monstrous, and hideous humanoid monster, featured in mythology, folklore, and fiction. Ogres are often depicted in fairy tales and folklore as feeding on human beings, and have appeared in many classic works of literature...
A large, dim-witted, fireproof humanoid noted for impressive gripping power but limited movement at the shoulder. Smrgol and Jim/Gorbash are among a very few dragons to have slain one.
- Sea-Lizard or Sea-Serpent
An amphibious reptile
Reptile
Reptiles are members of a class of air-breathing, ectothermic vertebrates which are characterized by laying shelled eggs , and having skin covered in scales and/or scutes. They are tetrapods, either having four limbs or being descended from four-limbed ancestors...
of tremendous size, considered traditional enemy of the dragons. One of these, by magical intervention, leads an invasion (in The Dragon at War) of England to destroy the dragons of England, but fails when fought and beaten by Jim Eckert.
- Granfer
A Kraken
Kraken
Kraken are legendary sea monsters of giant proportions said to have dwelt off the coasts of Norway and Iceland.In modern German, Krake means octopus but can also refer to the legendary Kraken...
, initially depicted as benign advisor to all marine and amphibious life, historical and mythical, but later revealed to be ambitious, and capable of magic, and desirous, according to Carolinus, "to rule the world". It is Granfer that permits a large-scale invasion of England by the sea-serpents, and who connects them to the Italio-French sorcerer Julio Ecotti for this purpose. Banished by Carolinus.
- Ahriman
A 'Great Demon', antagonist of The Dragon and the Djinn.
- Deep-Earth Goblins
Antagonists of The Dragon and the Fair Maid of Kent, wherein they appear as a cause of the Black Death
Black Death
The Black Death was one of the most devastating pandemics in human history, peaking in Europe between 1348 and 1350. Of several competing theories, the dominant explanation for the Black Death is the plague theory, which attributes the outbreak to the bacterium Yersinia pestis. Thought to have...
's proliferation in England, well before the accepted historic date. Especial enemies of the Castle Hobgoblins, whom they expelled from the 'Kingdom of Demons' centuries before the events of the books.
Other Characters
- Grottwold Weimar Hansen
University professor of various qualifications, whose experiments in astral projection
Astral projection
Astral projection is an interpretation of out-of-body experience that assumes the existence of an "astral body" separate from the physical body and capable of traveling outside it...
transported Angie, and later the psyche
Psyche (psychology)
The word psyche has a long history of use in psychology and philosophy, dating back to ancient times, and has been one of the fundamental concepts for understanding human nature from a scientific point of view. The English word soul is sometimes used synonymously, especially in older...
and memories of Jim, into the medieval period. Considered "an unsavory character" by Jim, owing to their former rivalry for Angie's hand in marriage
Marriage
Marriage is a social union or legal contract between people that creates kinship. It is an institution in which interpersonal relationships, usually intimate and sexual, are acknowledged in a variety of ways, depending on the culture or subculture in which it is found...
. Jim's instructor in hypnosis
Hypnosis
Hypnosis is "a trance state characterized by extreme suggestibility, relaxation and heightened imagination."It is a mental state or imaginative role-enactment . It is usually induced by a procedure known as a hypnotic induction, which is commonly composed of a long series of preliminary...
.
- Dick Innkeeper
Owner of an inn, of moderate importance to the first book.
- Son Won Phon
Chinese Magickian, who appears initially in The Dragon at War to challenge Jim's use of hypnosis
Hypnosis
Hypnosis is "a trance state characterized by extreme suggestibility, relaxation and heightened imagination."It is a mental state or imaginative role-enactment . It is usually induced by a procedure known as a hypnotic induction, which is commonly composed of a long series of preliminary...
on grounds that the latter was "Oriental magic" and ought have been taught by "a qualified Oriental instructor". Disproven by Carolinus. Son later appears as a specialist consulted by Carolinus, and in extension thereof by Jim.
- Martti Lahti
Finnish magician, of a moderate rank (identified as 'B+') slightly higher than that of Jim, who appears among those observing Carolinus answer the challenge posed by Son Won Phon, and who prevents the injured Sir Brian and Dafydd ap Hywel from hemhorrage. Amiable, easy-mannered, and slightly condescending toward Jim, whom he addresses as "youngster" in reference to Jim's newcomer status among magickians.
- Mnrogar
Self-proclaimed "King of the Trolls", this is a large and ancient troll
Troll
A troll is a supernatural being in Norse mythology and Scandinavian folklore. In origin, the term troll was a generally negative synonym for a jötunn , a being in Norse mythology...
living underneath the castle of an Earl. Although solitary, he maintains dominance over all the trolls in the region, and is therefore considered their superior. Addressed by Agatha Falon as "Grandfather" by reason of the years she spent as his ward.
Entities
- Auditing Department
Intangibly-constructed, nearly-omnipresent entity of immense influence and wry humor, called the Accounting Office in later books, whose purpose is largely (though not exclusively) to monitor the use of magic by Magickians of the Collegiate, and thus to determine whether or not they have the right to accomplish certain magical feats. Usually appears as a "bass voice" approximately one meter from the ground, but can appear speaking as if from or through the local environment itself. Invoked by Carolinus early on, it does not take revenge on him for speaking to itself familiarly, but is addressed with deference by Jim.
- HistoryHistoryHistory is the discovery, collection, organization, and presentation of information about past events. History can also mean the period of time after writing was invented. Scholars who write about history are called historians...
A force of nature that influences events to follow a certain monotonous order. Opposed and balanced by Chance.
- Chance
A force of nature that influences events toward chaos. Opposed and balanced by History.
The Dragon Knight
Chronological Listing:- The Dragon and the GeorgeThe Dragon and the GeorgeThe Dragon and the George is a 1976 fantasy novel by Gordon R. Dickson, the first in his "Dragon Knight" series. A shorter form of the story was previously published as the short story, "St...
(1976, Nelson Doubleday) British Fantasy Award - The Dragon KnightThe Dragon KnightThe Dragon Knight is the second book of Gordon R. Dickson's Dragon Knight series. The novel begins 5 months after the battle at Loathly Tower displayed in The Dragon and The George.-Plot introduction:...
(1990, Tor Books) - The Dragon on the Border (1992, Berkley Pub Group)
- The Dragon at War (1992, Ace Hardcover)
- The Dragon, the Earl, and the Troll (1994, Ace Books)
- The Dragon and the Djinn (1995, Ace Hardcover)
- The Dragon and the Gnarly King (1997, Tor Books)
- The Dragon in Lyonesse (1998, Tor Books)
- The Dragon and the Fair Maid of Kent (2000, Tor Books)
- The Dragon and the...? (200x, interrupted by author's deathDeathDeath is the permanent termination of the biological functions that sustain a living organism. Phenomena which commonly bring about death include old age, predation, malnutrition, disease, and accidents or trauma resulting in terminal injury....
)
- The series' only short story St. Dragon and the George, first published in F&SFThe Magazine of Fantasy & Science FictionThe Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction is a digest-size American fantasy and science fiction magazine first published in 1949 by Mystery House and then by Fantasy House. Both were subsidiaries of Lawrence Spivak's Mercury Publications, which took over as publisher in 1958. Spilogale, Inc...
Sep '57, was later expanded into the first novel of the series. It was later reprinted in several collections, among them A Dragon-Lover's Treasury of the Fantastic, edited by Margaret WeisMargaret WeisMargaret Edith Weis is a fantasy novelist who, along with Tracy Hickman, is one of the original creators of the Dragonlance game world and has written numerous novels and short stories set in fantastic worlds.-Early life:Margaret Weis was born in 1948 in Independence, Missouri, and later attended...
.
External links
- Series listing at SciFan
- Series listing at fantasticfiction.co.uk.
- St. Dragon and the George referral at SFSite.com