Llywelyn ab y Moel facts for kids

Llywelyn ab y Moel was a famous Welsh poet and rebel who lived in the 1400s. He was also the father of another well-known poet, Owain ap Llywelyn ab y Moel. Llywelyn ab y Moel passed away in the year 1440.

Llywelyn's Early Life

Llywelyn grew up in a small village called Llanwnnog. This village is located in an area of Powys, Wales, known as Arwystli. He also had family connections to the nearby area of Meifod through his mother's side.

A Poet and a Rebel

Llywelyn ab y Moel was not just a poet; he was also a fighter. He joined the rebellion led by Owain Glyndŵr. This was a big fight for Welsh independence against English rule. After the rebellion, Llywelyn lived as an outlaw, meaning he was outside the law.

His poems often talked about his feelings against the English. They also described what life was like as an outlaw. However, after Owain Glyndŵr's rebellion failed, Llywelyn seemed to change his mind. He later found a supporter in Sir William ap Thomas, who helped him.

His Later Years

Towards the end of his life, Llywelyn became very religious. He was eventually buried at a place called Strata Marcella.

Llywelyn's Poetic Works

Llywelyn started his journey as a poet by studying under an older poet. His teacher was named Rhys ap Dafydd ab Iorwerth.

Famous Debates

Llywelyn is well-known for a special kind of poetic discussion. He had a "bardic debate" with another poet named Rhys Goch Eryri. They debated about what makes a poet creative. This creative spark is often called the "poetic muse" or awen in Welsh.

Other Poems

Besides his debates, Llywelyn also wrote many poems for another famous poet. These poems were addressed to a person named Guto'r Glyn.