Piers Shonks

What it is

Piers Shonks is a legendary figure from the village of Brent Pelham in Hertfordshire, England. He is remembered as a local lord of the manor who fought a fearsome dragon. The story tells how he killed the beast and then outwitted the Devil to save his own soul. His tomb remains in St Mary's Church, where he was buried inside the north wall. This unusual burial place is central to the tale of his victory over evil forces.

Where it comes from

The legend likely grew from a real family named Shank who owned property in Brent Pelham during the 14th century. One member, Peter Shank, held manors in the area. The name may have evolved from Shank to Shonks. The story also draws on the physical features of the village, such as the old yew tree and the ancient tomb in the church. These elements were woven together over time to create a heroic narrative for the community.

How it is done

Shonks hunted the dragon with an attendant and three swift hounds. He found the creature in a cave under a great yew tree. In the fight, the hounds attacked the dragon's legs while Shonks thrust his spear down its throat. To avoid the Devil's claim on his soul, he arranged to be buried within the church walls. One version says he shot an arrow into the air and asked to be buried where it landed. It lodged in the north wall, fulfilling his request.

Tools and materials

He used a spear or lance and wore full armour. His companions included an attendant and three favourite hounds said to be so fast they had wings. The dragon made its home in a cave beneath the roots of a large yew tree. The tomb that bears his name features carvings of the Four Evangelists and an angel carrying a soul, along with a cross thrust through a two-legged dragon's mouth.

What it is for

The legend serves as a tale of protection and triumph. Shonks rid the district of a dragon that was burning crops and causing havoc. By cheating the Devil, he ensured his soul belonged to God rather than to evil. The story reassures the community that good can overcome powerful dark forces, even when those forces make specific threats about death and burial.

Who does it

Scholars study the legend to understand local history and folklore. They look at records of the Shank family and the physical evidence of the tomb. The story is passed down through oral tradition and local writings. Henry Chauncy, a historian writing in 1700, recorded details about Shonks. Modern researchers speculate on the origins of the name and the timeline of events described in the tale.

Peoples and places

The legend is specific to Brent Pelham in Hertfordshire. It is part of the English folk tradition. The story is tied to local landmarks like the moated manor house known as Shonkes and the fields of Great and Little Pepsells. The yew tree mentioned in the tale was noted in a tithe audit in the late 19th century. The legend reflects the concerns and imagination of the people who lived in this rural area.

What people believe

The story involves a direct conflict between a human hero and supernatural entities. The dragon is described as the favourite of the Devil. After Shonks kills the beast, the Devil appears and vows to take his body and soul. Shonks refuses to be buried inside or outside the church to evade this vow. The belief is that his clever burial arrangement placed his soul beyond the Devil's reach, ensuring his salvation.

How scholars and sceptics see it

Historians and folklorists examine the legend to find historical roots. They note that a family named Shank lived in Brent Pelham in the 14th century. Peter Shank was granted manors in the area. Scholars suggest the legend may have been inspired by the tomb's carvings, which show a dragon and an angel. The date of 1086 on the tomb is considered uncertain and may come from lost accounts.

Compare and confuse

Piers Shonks is similar to other dragon-slaying heroes like Saint George. Both figures defeat a monster to protect their communities. However, Shonks adds a unique twist by outwitting the Devil himself. Other legends feature heroes who cheat death or evil spirits, but the specific detail of burial in a church wall is distinct to this Hertfordshire tale.

Today

The legend continues to be told in Brent Pelham. The tomb in St Mary's Church is a visible reminder of the story. Visitors can see the marble cover and the carvings that inspired the tale. Local historians and writers have published accounts of the legend. The story remains a part of the cultural heritage of the village and the wider region.

Questions people ask about Piers Shonks

Good reading and sources

• Piers Shonks on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Wikidata recordOpen data