Dafydd Ddu o Hiraddug facts for kids

Dafydd Ddu o Hiraddug was an important Welsh poet, language expert, and priest who lived a long time ago. He was also known as Dafydd Ddu Athro o Hiraddug. He lived in Wales during the 1300s.

Who Was Dafydd Ddu o Hiraddug?

Dafydd Ddu o Hiraddug was a Welsh language poet, a language expert, and a Roman Catholic priest. He worked in a part of Wales called the diocese of Llanelwy (also known as St Asaph). For a while, people thought he was the son of someone named Hywel ap Madog, but this idea has since been shown to be incorrect. He died in the year 1371.

What Poems Did He Write?

Dafydd wrote many poems about religious topics. Some of his poems that we still have today talk about the Ten Commandments. He also wrote about Salvation and how human life is short. He reminded people about God's judgment that would come after death. Dafydd is also believed to have written a special poem called "Gwasanaeth Mair". This was a Welsh translation of a Latin book called "Horae beatae Mariae virginis," which was a type of prayer book.

His Important Grammar Book

Dafydd is most famous for something very important he did for Welsh poetry. He updated and improved a special book called the llyfr cerddwriaeth. This book was a "bardic grammar," which means it contained rules for Welsh poets. The original book was written by Einion Offeiriad. Dafydd's updated version helped poets write better and follow the rules of Welsh poetry.

Where Was He Buried?

It is thought that Dafydd Ddu o Hiraddug was buried in a place called Dyserth. This village is located in north Wales.