David Richards (Dafydd Ionawr) facts for kids
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David Richards (born 1751, died 1827) was a famous Welsh-language poet. He was also known by his special poet's name, Dafydd Ionawr. He was born in a place called Glanyrafon, near Bryn-crug, in north-west Wales. This area is now part of Gwynedd.
David Richards became a poet because he met another poet named Evan Evans. Evan Evans was a church leader in St Cadfan's Church, Tywyn. David then went to a school in Ystradmeurig to get a better education.
Early Life and Education
David Richards was born on January 22, 1751. His home was in a small village in Merionethshire. He showed an early interest in learning and poetry. Meeting Evan Evans helped him decide to focus on his studies.
He went to school in Ystradmeurig to improve his knowledge. This school helped him learn more than he could in his local area.
Teaching Career
After his schooling, David Richards became a teacher. He first worked as a junior schoolmaster in Wrexham. This was an early step in his long career in education.
He then studied for a short time at Jesus College, Oxford. After that, he taught at Oswestry grammar school. A grammar school was a type of school that taught subjects like Latin and Greek.
Later, he moved to Carmarthen and taught at the grammar school there. He then became the head of a free school in his home area. A free school meant that students did not have to pay to attend.
From 1800 to 1807, David Richards taught in Dolgellau. He stayed in Dolgellau for the rest of his life. He passed away there on May 12, 1827.
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His Poetry
David Richards wrote many poems in the Welsh language. His works often had Christian themes. He was known for his long, detailed poems.
Some of his most important works include:
- Cywydd y Drindod (1793)
- Y Mil-Blynyddau (1799)
- Gwaith Prydyddawl (1803)
- Joseph, Llywodraethwr yr Aipht (1809)
- Barddoniaeth Gristianogawl (1815)
- Cywydd y Dilyw (1821)
His poems helped to keep the Welsh language and its poetic traditions alive. He is remembered as an important figure in Welsh literature.
Sources
- Welsh Biography Online
