Long before Welsh poetry became synonymous with Dylan Thomas, Gwerful Mechain and Hedd Wyn, it was associated with the 6th century AD bard Taliesin.
Who Was Taliesin?
Taliesin lived so long ago that we don’t have an abundance of information about him. What we do know, however, is that the earliest known reference of his name comes in the 9th century Historia Brittonum (AD 828).
He is also mentioned in Y Gododdin (7th-11th century AD). His life is shrouded in mystery and steeped in legend.
The mystery? We don’t know much about him. The legend? He is often attributed the role of bard to the legendary Brenin Arthur (King Arthur) and the first mention of this possibly comes from Culhwch ac Olwen, a story from Llyfr Coch Hergest (Red Book of Hergest) – a 14th century collection of Mabinogion tales.
The attached image is an 1876 painting by Henry Clarence Whaite called “Finding of Taliesin”.
(Image Credits: Llyfrgell Genedlaethol Cymru | The National Library of Wales)
More from Welsh Histories
Welsh Histories is a Welsh history celebrating platform which looks to promote all aspects of Welsh history. Though we focus predominantly on native Welsh history, we do also share the non-native aspects from time to time. You can follow us on Facebook; Instagram or Twitter for more. You can also support us as a member of our Patreon community. A reader? We also have our very own Welsh Histories Shop where we sell our Welsh Histories Magazine. Diolch yn fawr iawn and keep enjoying Welsh Histories.
Best selling products
Niklas is the founder, owner, manager, editor, writer, video creator, voice over artist, and so forth, of Welsh Histories. He is passionate about the preservation of Welsh culture; the rejuvenation of the Welsh language and the promotion of Welsh history. Niklas currently resides in Pune, Maharashtra, with his beloved wife.