Subject
Folklore -- Wales Books
Best books
Wirt Sikes
British Goblins: Welsh Folk-lore, Fairy Mythology, Legends and Traditions
"British Goblins: Welsh Folk-Lore, Fairy Mythology, Legends and Traditions" by Wirt Sikes is a folklore collection published in 1880. Written by an American consul stationed in Cardiff, this compilation explores the supernatural world of Wales through fairies, spirits, ancient customs, and legendary creatures. Drawing from eighteenth-century sources and oral traditions gathered from Welsh locals, Sikes organized his findings into four sections covering everything from enchanted realms to dragons. The work became a landmark English-language study of Welsh mythology, though scholars debated its reliance on earlier collections versus original fieldwork.
Jonathan Ceredig Davies
Folk-Lore of West and Mid-Wales
"Folk-Lore of West and Mid-Wales" by Jonathan Ceredig Davies is a collection of folklore and customs, likely written in the early 20th century. The work focuses on the rich tapestry of Welsh traditions, particularly those found in West and Mid-Wales, seeking to document the vanishing cultural heritage of these regions. Through a detailed exploration of various customs, including love traditions, wedding practices, and superstitions, the book aims to preserve these narratives for future generations. The opening of the text sets the stage by highlighting the author's deep connections with the Welsh community and their folk traditions. It presents a historical context in which Davies gathered stories from local individuals, shedding light on rituals surrounding courtship, marriage, and the beliefs that shaped daily life. Emphasizing the importance of oral tradition, the introduction notes that many practices have faded with time or are on the brink of being forgotten. The author’s mission is portrayed as a labor of love—one that intertwines personal anecdotes with broader cultural insights, making a case for the significance of keeping these traditions alive amid modernity's encroachment.
Sidney Lanier
Knightly Legends of Wales; or, The Boy's Mabinogion Being the Earliest Welsh Tales of King Arthur in the Famous Red Book of Hergest
"Knightly Legends of Wales; or, The Boy's Mabinogion" by Sidney Lanier is a collection of ancient Welsh tales centered around the legendary figure of King Arthur, likely written in the late 19th century. This compilation aims to bring forth the earliest tales of the Mabinogion, presenting action-packed adventures and chivalric themes catering specifically to a young audience. With vibrant characters such as King Arthur and the noble knights of his court, the book invokes a sense of wonderment and honor through its classic narratives. The opening of the collection introduces readers to the context of the Mabinogion, emphasizing its roots in the 14th-century manuscript known as The Red Book of Hergest. Lanier provides an engaging introduction that underscores the significance of these tales, presenting them as fragments of Welsh culture that shape notions of heroism and chivalry. In the narrative, we meet King Arthur resting in his chamber, where his companions, including Owain and Kai, engage in storytelling—a ritual that sets the stage for the legendary adventures and moral dilemmas that will unfold throughout the book. This lively start entices readers with a taste of Arthurian legend, promising an exploration of the fascinating interplay between bravery, magic, and the age-old quest for honor.
Beatrice E. (Beatrice Elizabeth) Clay
Stories from Le Morte D'Arthur and the Mabinogion
"Stories from Le Morte D'Arthur and the Mabinogion" by Beatrice E. Clay is a collection of retellings of classic Arthurian and Welsh legends written in the early 20th century. This anthology delves into the adventures and legendary tales surrounding the iconic figure of King Arthur, his knights, and notable characters like Merlin, Morgan le Fay, and Sir Lancelot. Through these stories, readers will explore themes of chivalry, honor, and the quest for truth, making it a fascinating read for those interested in mythology and epic tales. At the start of the compilation, the introduction establishes the legendary status of King Arthur and his forebears through a historical lens, highlighting the blend of myth and history surrounding his character. It details the arrival of Arthur into the world, the machinations of Merlin, and the political unrest among the lords after King Uther's death. As Arthur pulls the sword from the stone, a series of events unfolds that leads to his recognition as the true king, his founding of the Round Table, and initial battles against those who question his authority, setting the stage for the rich tapestry of adventures that will ensue throughout the narratives.
R. Rice Davies
The Cambrian Sketch-Book: Tales, Scenes, and Legends of Wild Wales
"The Cambrian Sketch-Book: Tales, Scenes, and Legends of Wild Wales" by R. Rice Davies is a collection of tales and sketches written in the late 19th century. This work explores various aspects of Welsh culture, including its history, customs, and legends, while also showcasing the rich natural beauty of Wales through descriptive narratives. The stories involve real-life characters and are rooted in the historical context of the region, emphasizing Welsh pride and heritage. The opening of the book serves as an introduction from the author, where he pays homage to Lady Llanover for her contributions to Welsh culture and literature. It establishes the author's intent to depict scenes connected to the past and to celebrate the resilience and enduring spirit of the Welsh people despite historical injustices. The author reflects on the challenges of writing about such a rich cultural history and presents a range of tales and accounts that bring Welsh legends to life. The first tale introduced is about the ascent of Snowdon, immersing the reader in breathtaking landscapes and the allure of Welsh mythology, signaling a journey into the heart of Cambrian life and tradition.
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