The Barddas of Iolo Morganwg, Volume 2

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

—

Title

The Barddas of Iolo Morganwg, Volume 2

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

This volume presents the ancient Welsh Bardic system, detailing the privileges, usages, and laws of the Bards of the Isle of Britain. It outlines the roles of Poets, Ovates, and Druids, their distinctive robes, and the sacred duties of preserving truth, justice, and history through song.

Summary up to 500 words

The Voice of Gorsedd, as established in the Barddas of Iolo Morganwg, Volume 2, serves as the supreme authority for the Bards of the Isle of Britain. This text traces the lineage of these guardians to three primordial figures—Plennydd, Alawn, and Gwron—who received divine inspiration (Awen) to devise the nation's privileges and usages. The work asserts that while Bardism was corrupted elsewhere by non-divine forces, genuine tradition survives exclusively among the Bards of the Isle of Britain, who act as the moral ballustrade of the nation. The text delineates a strict hierarchy and code of conduct. Bards are forbidden from bearing weapons, ensuring they remain men of peace. They are categorized into three primitive types, each distinguished by specific robes and functions: the Poet (Primitive Bard Positive), dressed in serene sky blue to symbolize peace and truth; the Ovate, clad in green to represent knowledge and learning; and the Druid, robed in white to signify holiness and purity. Their primary duties include maintaining peace, truth, and justice, singing praise and dispraise, and preserving the collective memory of the Cymry. The path to becoming a Bard is rigorous, requiring three years of discipleship under a presiding master. Aspirants must demonstrate basic literacy, knowledge of their native tongue, and understanding of the four cardinal directions before being admitted. Upon completion of this period, they may receive degrees, though exceptions exist for those of necessity. The volume further categorizes Bards into three functional types: the Primitive Bard, who preserves ancient memory; the Herald-bard, who records history and genealogies; and the Post-bard, who imparts new sciences. Additionally, the text distinguishes between Chaired Bards, Family Bards, and Minstrels, each with distinct roles ranging from maintaining the Chair to domestic singing and satirical dialogue. Central to the Bardic system are the Triads, grouped sayings covering song, occasions, and duties. These include the three firm laws of judgment, the three essences of vocal song (goodness, commendable memory, and harmless amusement), and the three occasions for Bardism: preserving just memorials, teaching good usages, and amusing the mind. The text also details the rights of Bards, such as their free acres and the gratuitous wassail provided by lords. Historical notes within the volume reference legendary figures like King Arthur and Maxen Wledig, as well as Welsh princes, grounding the Bardic tradition in the nation's deep history. Ultimately, the Barddas presents a comprehensive system where vocal song, protected by the Chair and Eisteddvod, is the vehicle for maintaining social inhabitation, morality, and the integrity of the Cymric language.

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4.2/5

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Categories

• Folklore
• Mythology