Origin: France (Christian Mythology)
History: The Gargouille was a terrible sea serpent who, one day, emerged from the Seine and began to spew water about the country side. This creature also created a great tidal wave. The word Gargouille means "gargler". Whatsoever the waters did not kill, the creature devoured.
The archbishop of Rouen, known as St. Romain, decided he would fix this problem. He found that the Gargouille lived in a cave lair in the banks of the Seine, so he set out to vanqish the area of the pestilence. Much to his surprise, no one wanted to come with st. Romain. The only person who agreed was a prisoner who was condemned to die for murder. Figuring that he had nothing to lose, he readily agreed to go with the archbishop.
The two brave men went to the creature lair. And, sure enough, the Gargouille reared up with feriocity. However, the archbishop made the cross with his two fingers and the creature fell docile. With that, the priest bount the dragon's neck and lead him into town.
The townsfolk condemn the dragon to death by fire. The immense pile of ash was cast into the Seine River, but none have forgotten the damage left by the Gargouille.
Symbolism: Note the likenesses between the Gargouille and the Tarasque.
Physical Description: This monsterous sea serpent has membranous fins instead of limbs. Often depicted spewing water or with water running down around the beast.
- Giants, Monsters, & Dragons by Carol Rose
For more information about these footnotes, please see the bibliography.
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© Kylie 'drago' McCormick.
Last updated: 4 October 2009