Gelert is a mythical creature associated with the village of Beddgelert in Gwynedd, north-west Wales. The legend goes that Llywelyn the Great, one of Wales’s most famous princes, had a palace at Beddgelert in Caernarvonshire. As a keen hunter, he spent much of his time in the surrounding countryside with his faithful hound, Gelert.
The tale of Gelert is one of the defining stories of Eryri, and it is one of the best-known and loved folk-tales in Wales. According to the legend, Llywelyn returned from hunting to find his baby missing, the cradle overturned, and Gelert with a blood-smeared mouth. Thinking that Gelert had killed his baby, Llywelyn drew his sword and killed the dog, only to hear the baby’s cries and find it safe and sound under the cradle, along with the body of a wolf that Gelert had killed to protect the baby.
The story of Gelert is a powerful reminder of the bond between humans and animals and the importance of loyalty and trust. It has inspired countless retellings, poems, and songs, and it continues to capture the imagination of people from all over the world.
Origin of the Gelert Legend
Welsh Folklore
Gelert is a mythical creature associated with the village of Beddgelert in Gwynedd, North-West Wales. According to Welsh folklore, Gelert was the favourite hound of Prince Llywelyn the Great of Wales. The story goes that Llywelyn went hunting and left Gelert to guard his infant son. When he returned, he found the baby missing and Gelert’s mouth covered in blood. He assumed that Gelert had killed his son and in a fit of rage, he killed the dog. However, he later discovered the infant unharmed and a dead wolf nearby. Llywelyn was filled with remorse and buried Gelert with great ceremony.
Medieval Literature
The story of Gelert has been retold in various forms of medieval literature. One of the most famous versions of the story was written by the 18th-century poet William Robert Spencer. The story was also included in the book “The Welsh Fairy Book” by W. Jenkyn Thomas. The legend of Gelert has become a popular subject for artists, writers and poets over the years. The story has also been adapted for children’s books, stage productions and even a film. The tale of Gelert has become one of the defining tales of Welsh folklore.
The Story of Gelert
Prince Llewelyn the Great
Gelert is a mythical creature associated with the village of Beddgelert in Gwynedd, northwest Wales. The story of Gelert begins with Prince Llewelyn the Great, who was one of Wales’s most famous princes. Llewelyn had a palace at Beddgelert in Caernarfonshire, where he spent much of his time hunting in the surrounding countryside.
The Faithful Hound
Gelert was the dog of Prince Llewelyn the Great, and he was known for his loyalty and bravery. Gelert was a wolfhound, and he was always by Llewelyn’s side during his hunting trips. The two were inseparable, and Gelert was considered a member of the prince’s family.
Tragic Misunderstanding
One day, Llewelyn went out hunting and left his baby son in the care of Gelert. When he returned, he found the cradle overturned, and Gelert with a blood-smeared mouth. In a fit of rage, Llewelyn drew his sword and killed Gelert, believing that he had killed his son.
However, as Llewelyn searched the area, he found his son unharmed and lying next to the body of a dead wolf. It was then that Llewelyn realized his mistake and felt overwhelming grief for killing his loyal and faithful hound. He buried Gelert with great honor and respect, and the village of Beddgelert was named in his memory.
In conclusion, the story of Gelert is a tragic tale of a faithful hound who was unjustly killed by his master. It is a story that has been passed down through generations and has become a beloved part of Welsh folklore.
Cultural Impact
Gelert’s Grave
Gelert’s Grave is a popular tourist attraction in the village of Beddgelert, North Wales. According to legend, Gelert was a faithful hound who saved the life of his master’s son from a wolf attack. However, the master mistakenly believed that Gelert had killed his son and killed the dog in a fit of rage. The master later realized his mistake and erected a tomb for Gelert, which can still be seen today. The story of Gelert has become an important part of Welsh folklore and has been passed down from generation to generation.
Literary References
The story of Gelert has been referenced in several literary works over the years. One of the most famous references is in the poem “Beth Gelert” by William Robert Spencer. The poem tells the story of Gelert and his master and is often cited as one of the earliest literary references to the legend. The story has also been referenced in several other works, including novels, plays, and films.
Modern Depictions
The legend of Gelert has continued to capture the imagination of people around the world. The story has been adapted into several modern depictions, including children’s books, cartoons, and even a video game. The legend has also been featured in several tourism campaigns promoting the village of Beddgelert and the surrounding area. The story of Gelert has become an important part of Welsh culture and continues to inspire people today.
Themes and Morals
Loyalty and Sacrifice
One of the main themes of the Gelert legend is loyalty and sacrifice. Gelert was a loyal dog who protected his master’s child from a wolf attack, sacrificing his own life in the process. This act of loyalty and sacrifice has been celebrated throughout Welsh folklore and is an important lesson for children and adults alike.
Rash Decisions
Another theme of the Gelert legend is the danger of making rash decisions. Llywelyn the Great, in a moment of panic and anger, killed Gelert without fully understanding the situation. He later realized his mistake and was filled with remorse. This cautionary tale serves as a reminder to think before acting and to consider all the facts before making a decision.
Remorse and Loss
The Gelert legend also explores the themes of remorse and loss. Llywelyn the Great was filled with regret after realizing he had killed his loyal companion without cause. This sense of loss and regret is a universal experience that many people can relate to. The story teaches us to value our relationships and to cherish the time we have with loved ones.
Overall, the Gelert legend is a powerful story that teaches important lessons about loyalty, sacrifice, caution, and regret. These themes continue to resonate with people of all ages and backgrounds, making Gelert a beloved and enduring character in Welsh folklore.
Variations and Similar Tales
Global Folklore Comparisons
Gelert is a legendary creature from Welsh folklore, but there are similar tales of faithful dogs from around the world. For example, in Japanese folklore, there is the story of Hachiko, a loyal Akita dog who waited for his owner at a train station every day, even after his owner’s death. In Argentina, there is the legend of Cadejo, a dog that protects travelers from evil spirits.
These stories show that the bond between humans and dogs is universal, and that the idea of a loyal and protective dog is a common theme in folklore.
Adaptations
The story of Gelert has been adapted in various ways over the years. In literature, Gelert appears in the poem “The Grave of Gelert” by William Robert Spencer, and in the novel “The Welsh Girl” by Peter Ho Davies. In music, there is a song called “The Ballad of Gelert” by Welsh folk singer Siân James.
The story of Gelert has also been adapted for television and film. In the TV series “The Legend of Prince Valiant,” Gelert appears as a character. In the film “Prince Valiant,” Gelert is played by a real dog.
These adaptations show that the story of Gelert continues to capture people’s imaginations and inspire new creative works.
Visiting Gelert’s Grave
Gelert is a legendary wolfhound associated with the village of Beddgelert in Gwynedd, North-West Wales. According to the legend, Gelert was a gift from the Bad King John of England to the Welsh Prince, Llywelyn the Great, in the 13th-century. The story of Gelert’s loyalty and sacrifice has made him a popular figure in Welsh folklore.
Beddgelert Village
Beddgelert, the village named after Gelert, is located in the heart of Snowdonia National Park. The village is a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from all over the world. The village is home to a number of cafes, restaurants, and shops. Visitors can take a stroll along the banks of the Glaslyn river or take a hike up the nearby mountains.
Tourism and Economy
Tourism is the main source of income for the village of Beddgelert. The village has a number of hotels, guesthouses, and holiday cottages that cater to tourists. The village also has a number of campsites for those who prefer to camp. The village hosts a number of events throughout the year, including the Gelert’s Grave Festival, which celebrates the legend of Gelert.
Visiting Gelert’s grave is a must for anyone visiting Beddgelert. The grave is located just outside the village and is marked by a stone monument. Visitors can pay their respects to Gelert and learn more about the legend that has made him a beloved figure in Welsh folklore.