June 2026 History of Welsh folk lore through archaeology & story
Posted: Thu Oct 08, 2026 3:31 pm
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.
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.