A stunning history of Wales and early Welsh society, this collection unites thousands of lines of verse. Originally the property of a small group of private collectors living in the north of Wales, the papers were hidden in response to Henry VIII's dissolution of the monasteries, which had hitherto served as libraries with copies of the ancient folklore. The historical value of the Four Ancient Books of Wales is enormous; the rivalries and battles between the kings and nobles of the valleys are soundly explained by authors who were close to the action.

The subjects encountered in these poems range from the heroism displayed at certain battles, to mythological or semi-mythological accounts of Welsh heroes, to stories of brave adventure. The development of Wales as a country and distinctive culture forms a constant backdrop; the social allusions in these poems demonstrate how the country grew, with the picturesque Welsh valleys a familiar setting. Prominent poets of pre-12^th century Wales include Taliessin, Aneurin, Llywarch Hen, and Myrddin; these and many lesser-known examples populate the pages herein.