Fflewddur Fflam facts for kids

Fflewddur Fflam is a fun and brave character from Lloyd Alexander's fantasy book series, The Chronicles of Prydain. He is a minor king in a small land called Prydain. Even though he's a king, he often leaves his kingdom to travel as a bard. He loves music and adventure more than ruling! He's known for his magical harp and his kind heart. He is the son of Godo and rules a small cantrev (a type of district). He often mentions that his people seem to manage just fine even when he is away.

Who is Fflewddur Fflam?

Fflewddur Fflam is a unique character. He is a king, but he doesn't act like a typical ruler. He prefers to wander around Prydain as a bard, playing his magical harp. He is much less important than the High King who rules all of Prydain. His own kingdom is described as being a bit boring, which might be why he loves to explore!

What Does He Look Like?

In the books, Fflewddur is described as a tall, thin man. He has spiky blonde hair. However, in the Disney film The Black Cauldron, his look is a bit different. In the movie, he is shown as an older man with white hair. He is still lanky but has a small pot belly. In the film, his royal status is not mentioned.

His Personality and Magic Harp

Fflewddur Fflam is a very kind and good-hearted person. He cares more about doing what's right than being a fancy king. He would much rather play games with children than make them leave his throne room! He has a restless spirit and loves to travel. He often meets his friends, Taran and Eilonwy, during his adventures. His favorite saying is "Great Belin!"

Lloyd Alexander, the author, once said that Fflewddur's personality is a lot like his own. Fflewddur has a special magical harp. This harp helps him tell the truth. If he tells a lie, a string on his harp will snap!

Fflewddur and Magic

Even though he uses a magical harp, Fflewddur is quite afraid of magic. He especially dislikes what he calls "black magic". He tries to avoid looking at magical objects unless he knows they are harmless. An example of a harmless magical item he accepts is Eilonwy's glowing bauble, Pelydryn. He is also comfortable with his own harp and Adaon's brooch, which are bardic in nature.

Fflewddur in the Disney Movie

In the Disney film The Black Cauldron, Fflewddur is voiced by Nigel Hawthorne. In the movie, one of the witches of Morva, named Orwen, takes a liking to him. Fflewddur often tries to avoid her because he knows his friends, Taran and Eilonwy, are more important. Despite his fear, Fflewddur bravely stands up to the witches. He does this to help his friend Gurgi at the end of the film.