Pennod 16 – Geraint a’i shorts sidan

Geraint and his satin shorts

In this episode we discuss the tale ‘Ystoria Geraint fab Erbin’ (the ‘Story’ or ‘History’ of Geraint so of Erbin) and consider its relationship with a narrative poem by the French poet Chrétien de Troyes. Is it possible that this Welsh tale is actually a translation of the French text? Is it really right to include ‘Geraint’ among the ‘native tales’? We suggest that a Welsh author took Chrétien’s story and dressed in Welsh clothes. After all, there are lots of Welsh names here, many of them with very deep roots in traditional Welsh narrative, including Geraint. It also presents a very interesting look at south-east Wales, including Caerdyf or Cardiff. And, talking about clothes, the description of Geraint’s outfit when he first appears is brilliant. In addition to all of the greatness, bravery, chivalry and adventur, this tale offers a critical discussion of the very Arthurian world it celebrates.