The Arthur of the Welsh: The Arthurian Legend in Medieval Welsh Literature

(Paperback)

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This collection of essays presents an account of the Arthurian literature produced in Wales, in both Welsh and Latin, during the Middle Ages. Topics addressed include the "historical" Arthur, Arthur in early Welsh verse, the legend of Merlin, and the tales of Culhwch ac Olwen, Geraint, Owain, Peredur, The Dream of Rhonabwy, and Trystan ac Esyllt. Other chapters investigate the evidence for the growth of the Arthurian theme in the "Triads" and in the "Historia Regum Britanniae" of Geoffrey of Monmouth. There is also a discussion of the Breton connection and the gradual transmission of the legend to the non-Celtic world.

Reviews

`The scholarship embodied in this work is consistently high. It may assume its place as a standard in Arthurian and Welsh studies immediately.' (Speculum-A Journal of Medieval Studies) `...a collection of delightfully presented and elegantly written essays... all readers with an interest in Arthurian matters, whether students or established scholars, will recognise its importance.' (Synopsis) '...an ideal source book for students...' (Cambridge Medieval Celtic Studies)

Author Bio

Rachel Bromwich is Honorary Professor, Department of Welsh, University of Wales, Lampeter.