Elffin ap Gwyddno facts for kids

The variant spelling 'Elphin' may refer to Saint Elphin, the town of Elphin, County Roscommon, Ireland or the Diocese of Elphin, cathedral in Sligo Town, Co. Sligo, Ireland. Elphin is also a village in Sutherland, Scotland.

In Welsh mythology, Elffin ap Gwyddno was a famous character. He was the son of Gwyddno Garanhir, who was known as the 'Lord of Ceredigion'. You can find the earliest stories about Elffin in old poems. These poems are thought to have been written by a poet named Taliesin. They are found in a book called the Book of Taliesin. These stories are very old, probably from before the Normans came to Wales. Later on, more detailed stories about Elffin and Taliesin were written.

Who Was Elffin ap Gwyddno?

Elffin ap Gwyddno is a key figure in ancient Welsh tales. He is often linked with the legendary poet and prophet, Taliesin. Their adventures together show themes of luck, wisdom, and magic. Elffin's story teaches us about the importance of loyalty and cleverness.

Elffin's Family and Background

Elffin was the son of Gwyddno Garanhir. Gwyddno was a powerful lord in the region of Ceredigion in Wales. This area is known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes. Being the son of a lord meant Elffin had a certain status, but his life was full of unexpected events.

The Story of Elffin and Taliesin

The most complete story about Elffin and his friend Taliesin is found in an old text called Ystorya Taliesin. This tale is also known as Hanes Taliesin. It tells us how Elffin, despite being quite unlucky, met the magical baby Taliesin.

How Elffin Found Taliesin

One day, Elffin's father, Gwyddno, sent him to a salmon weir. A weir is like a fence built in a river to catch fish. Elffin was supposed to catch salmon. But instead of fish, he found a baby boy! Elffin decided to call the baby Taliesin. This name means "radiant brow," which suited the baby perfectly.

As Elffin carried the baby back to his father, something amazing happened. Even though Taliesin was just a baby, he started to speak. He spoke in beautiful poetry, showing he was no ordinary child.

The King's Challenge to Elffin

Years later, Elffin faced a big challenge. Maelgwn Gwynedd, who was the king of Gwynedd, demanded that Elffin praise him and his royal court. Elffin, being a proud man, refused. He bravely claimed that Taliesin was a better bard (poet) than anyone the King had. He also said his own wife was more virtuous than any woman in the King's court.

Taliesin, who had special powers to see the future, knew what was happening. He warned Elffin's wife about the King's plan. King Maelgwn tried to trick Elffin and make it look like his wife was unfaithful. But Elffin was clever. He pointed out details that proved the trick was false. He knew his wife's habits well, like how often she cut her fingernails.

Taliesin's Magic at Court

King Maelgwn was angry and demanded that Taliesin come to his court. He wanted Taliesin to prove his claims. Taliesin agreed to a contest. He gave the King's bards twenty minutes to come up with an epic poem. The royal bards tried their best, but they couldn't do it.

When it was Taliesin's turn, he used his magic. He caused a massive wind to shake the castle! The King and his court were very frightened. Maelgwn quickly sent for Elffin, who was being held captive. Taliesin then sang another song, and Elffin's chains magically fell off.

The Horse Race Challenge

Still not giving up, King Maelgwn challenged Elffin and Taliesin to a horse race. The next day, Taliesin arrived with an old, weak horse. As each of the King's fast horses passed him at the start of the race, Taliesin touched its rump with a twig of holly.

When all the King's horses had passed, Taliesin dropped his hat on the ground. When the King's horses came back, just before the finish line, they suddenly stopped. They started to dance at the spots where Taliesin had placed the holly twigs! Meanwhile, Taliesin's old horse slowly walked in much later, but it won the race because the other horses were busy dancing.

Elffin and Taliesin's story shows how cleverness and a bit of magic can overcome even the most powerful challenges.