The Four Ancient Books Of Wales: Containing The Cymric Poems Attributed To The Bards Of The Sixth Century (Volume I)

By William Forbes Skene

Book Overview

Echoes from the bards of sixth-century Wales. A Welsh poetry anthology presented with clarity and reverence. These voices speak across time. William Forbes Skene's edition gathers the Cymric poems attributed to the bards of the sixth century, offering readers a definitive bardic verse collection and a reliable poetry translation reference. The selections range from short lyrics and elegies to longer heroic lists and genealogical pieces, preserving the cadences and concerns of early Welsh verse without needlessly opaque apparatus. As an anthology of ancient bardic poems it situates individual stanzas within wider early Welsh legends and the shared imaginings that later fed the Mabinogion; for those exploring medieval celtic literature or searching celtic mythology texts, the volume is an essential resource. It also clarifies how these compositions inform our picture of early british history and the social orders of sixth century wales, making the material useful to students of medieval literature as well as to curious general readers drawn to the tales of the welsh bards. Skene's introductions and notes guide the reader through manuscript variants, oral-formulaic patterns and the politics entwined with myth, while keeping the lyric energy of the originals. Volume I functions both as a scholarly point of departure and as an evocative reading experience for anyone intrigued by the roots of Welsh poetic tradition. Republished by Alpha Editions in a careful modern edition, this volume preserves the spirit of the original while making it effortless to enjoy today - a heritage title prepared for readers and collectors alike. Its literary and historical significance is clear: a primary witness to an oral tradition captured in writing, it belongs on the shelf of any reader who studies the origins of British narrative song. Casual readers will find immediate drama and atmosphere; collectors and classic literature enthusiasts will value the editorial care and the book's role as both a mabinogion companion and a touchstone in studies of medieval celtic literature.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 9354185673
• ISBN13: 9789354185670
• Release Date: October 2020
• Publisher: Alpha Edition
• Length: 620 Pages
• Weight: 2.37 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.5" x 6.0" x 9.0"