Y Gododin: A Poem of the Battle of Cattraeth
Aneirin
"Y Gododin: A Poem of the Battle of Cattraeth" by Aneirin is an ancient Welsh poem composed in the sixth century. This work serves as a historical account that details the events and characters involved in the legendary battle of Cattraeth, a conflict between the Britons and Saxons. The poem is notable for its lyrical structure, as well as its exploration of themes such as valor, loss, and the tragic consequences of war.  The opening of "Y Gododin" introduces the reader to the context of the poem and its central figures, who are warriors preparing for and engaging in battle. It vividly depicts the gallantry and eventual fate of various chieftains, who marched to Cattraeth filled with bravado, only to suffer devastating losses. Aneirin himself, as a bard, recounts the actions and virtues of these heroes while also lamenting the sorrow resulting from their demise. The stanzas articulate both a celebration of bravery and a reflection on the inevitability of death in warfare, setting the tone for the tragic narrative that unfolds throughout the poem. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Cattraeth, Battle of, Catterick, England, ca. 600 -- Poetry
Category: Classics of Literature Category: History - Ancient Category: Poetry