Astudiaethau ar yr hengerdd =: Studies in old Welsh poetry

The reviews highlight this book as an excellent work of scholarship dedicated to the Cynfeirdd, or early Welsh poets. It is lauded as a collection of essays by great scholars, each contributing their expertise on specialized subjects. The book offers profound insights into a centuries-old poetic tradition, meticulously analyzing its conventions, resilience against linguistic changes, and its role as a continuous chain of Celtic eulogistic poetry. Readers will find deep explorations of figures like Aneirin, discussions on the development and preservation of early Welsh literary traditions, and a wide array of topics spanning early Welsh poetry and history. Despite its age, the book is consistently described as necessary and highly relevant reading, considered a seminal work that continues to provide enduring value for those studying ancient Welsh verse.

A notable drawback mentioned in the reviews is that a significant portion of the book is written in Welsh. This linguistic choice is acknowledged to serve a cultural purpose, aiming to prevent the potential extinction of Welsh culture by promoting its use in academic discourse. However, it also presents a considerable roadblock and hindrance for readers who are not fluent in the Welsh language, limiting their access to the full scope and depth of the scholarship contained within the majority of the text.

In conclusion, this collection of essays stands as a highly regarded and indispensable resource for the study of early Welsh poetry and its associated historical and literary contexts. It provides profound scholarly analysis and engaging hypotheses concerning the origins, evolution, and preservation of ancient Welsh verse. This book is particularly recommended for academics, students, and dedicated enthusiasts within Welsh studies, especially those specializing in the Cynfeirdd and other early poetic traditions. While readers with a strong command of Welsh will fully benefit from all its content, those without fluency should be prepared for the linguistic challenge posed by the book's predominantly Welsh sections, though the English contributions still offer valuable insights.