June 2026 History of Welsh folk lore through archaeology & story

[QuentinDeakin]

At the society's June meeting, the speaker Miranda Aldhouse Green, Emeritus Professor of Archaeology at Cardiff University and author, gave an inspiring talk entitled 'Cauldrons of the Gods: the archaeology of medieval Welsh folklore'. As a leading authority on the subject, Miranda attracted a large attendance of members and visitors.

Although the talk encompassed the history, beliefs, rituals and mythology of Celtic/Romano-Britain during the Roman occupation, her focus was Wales. With the aid of a facsimile Roman cauldron Miranda drew parallels and identified common tropes with other European folklore, cross-referencing archaeological evidence and analysis. A major part of the talk was devoted to an in-depth reading, exploration and analysis of several stories from the Mabinogion, where history, mythology, folklore and beliefs coalesce. Questions and comments followed and Miranda was thanked for her fascinating presentation.