Cormoran the Cornish Giant and Jack the Giant Killer

The Celtic nation of Cornwall has many myths and legends involving giants. One such giant was Cormoran.  His legendary home was St Michaels Mount and from this base he launched many raids on the terrified locals, stealing their livestock. The desperate people offered a reward to anyone who could rid them of the giant and allow them to live in peace. Not fully expecting anyone to be brave enough to rise to this challenge they were surprised when a young boy called Jack stepped forward.

Jack formed his plan for tackling the giant. One night when Cormoran was sleeping Jack went over to the Mount.  With great stealth he dug a large pit halfway up the side of St Michaels Mount.  The next morning he blew his horn to wake Cormoran. The angry giant raced down the side of the Mount but failed to see the pit and plunged into it. Jack quickly raced over and filled in the pit and buried the giant. It is also said that Jack found the giants hidden treasure. From that day on Jack was known as “Jack the Giant Killer”.

When visiting St Michaels Mount and below the castle walls there is a large heart shaped stone. This is the giant’s heart. When you go there, climb on to the stone and listen very carefully. From below your feet you will hear the gentle beating of Cormoran’s heart!

Further reading

"Folklore Cornwall" by Tony Deane and Tony Shaw touches on the wide variety of legends, songs and stories and their relationship with the rugged landscape: from standing stones and tales of sea-monsters and mermaids to ghosts, fairies and giants. The book looks at pagan ceremonies and old traditions, and the very Cornish love of singing. It further discusses the Cornish tongue, and the old language of Cornwall. And, of course, no study of Cornwall would be complete without some consideration of King Arthur and his legacy upon the folklore of the county.

Get your copy from both Amazon.com (US$) and Amazon.co.uk (GB£):

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St Michaels Mount