Welsh Fairy Tales

"Welsh Fairy Tales" by William Elliot Griffis is a compilation of early 20th-century Welsh folklore, brimming with enchanting stories revolving around themes of valor, affection, and the mystical aspects of Welsh fairy tales. Within this collection, you'll encounter figures like Saint David, courageous young women, fearsome beasts, and cunning sorcerers, all of whom offer a glimpse into Welsh traditions and myths. The book begins with a preface where the author muses on his Welsh roots and the importance of storytelling in the culture, then kicks off with "Welsh Rabbit and Hunted Hares," where the sympathetic Saint David shows the Welsh people about food and good behavior. The story tells of a hunting prince who meets a maiden named Monacella, who saves a hare with her prayers, earning the prince's respect and a holy refuge on his lands; this jumpstarts a fascinating tour through Welsh fairy tales, blending spells, ethics, and reality with the supernatural.