Iolo Goch facts for kids
Iolo Goch (born around 1320 – died around 1398) was a famous medieval Welsh bard. A bard was like a poet and singer who told stories and praised important people. Iolo Goch means Iolo the Red in English. He wrote many poems, including some for Owain Glyndŵr, a famous Welsh leader.
Who Was Iolo Goch?
Iolo Goch was born in a place called Lleweni. This was in the beautiful Vale of Clwyd in Wales. His father rented land and had a house there. Iolo was known for his amazing poetry.
Iolo's Special Poems
Iolo Goch was one of the best at writing a special type of Welsh poem called a cywydd. These poems had a unique rhythm and style. He wrote poems for many important Welsh noblemen.
One of his main supporters was Ithel ap Robert. Ithel was an important church leader near Caerwys. Iolo also wrote a poem for King Edward III of England. This poem showed that Iolo knew a lot about places and battles in England, Ireland, and France during that time. It might have been written around 1347.
Iolo Goch also wrote three poems for Owain Glyndŵr. These poems were written before Owain started his famous rebellion. One poem gives a clear picture of Owain's great hall at Sycharth. Iolo also wrote a well-known poem called Y Llafurwr, which means "The Labourer."
See Also
- Iolo Goch at Wikisource
- Medieval Welsh literature
