| King Arthur's Raid on the Underworld: The Oldest Grail Quest Contributor(s): Matthews, John (Author), Matthews, Caitlin (Author), Falconer, Meg (Illustrator) |
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ISBN: 0906362725 ISBN-13: 9780906362723 Publisher: Gothic Image Publications OUR PRICE: $36.00 Product Type: Hardcover Published: November 2008 |
| Additional Information |
| BISAC Categories: - Social Science | Folklore & Mythology - Literary Criticism | English, Irish, Scottish, Welsh - Literary Criticism | Medieval |
| Dewey: 398.352 |
| Physical Information: 1.08" H x 9.48" W x 8.12" (2.06 lbs) 145 pages |
| Themes: - Chronological Period - Medieval (500-1453) - Cultural Region - British Isles |
| Descriptions, Reviews, Etc. |
| Publisher Description: The 9th century Welsh poem "Preiddeu Annfwyn" or "The Raid on the Underworld" ascribed to the 6th century poet and shaman Taliesin, is one of the oldest and most enigmatic documents relating to the mythic hero Arthur that we still possess. Extending to a mere 61 lines, it contains within it vital clues to the Celtic Mystery traditions of this and earlier times. Describing the descent of Arthur and his men on the ship Prydwen into the region of Annwfn (literally, 'the in-world' or underworld of Celto-British tradition, or Annwn in modern Welsh) in order to steal the wonder-working cauldron from the Lord of Annwfn, this poem hides many secrets within its shimmering lines. The cauldron is one of the Thlysau or Treasures, hallowed otherworldly objects that are the source of illimitable power. Arthur's quest for the cauldron of the underworld is a precursor of many more famous quests, while the cauldron itself is the forerunner of the Grail. |
Contributor Bio(s): Falconer, Meg: - Meg Falconer is an artist who has studied the meanings of The Raid on the Underworld for nearly 20 years and her set of 8 astonishing and beautiful pictures illustrating the Caers (Towers) which Arthur and his warriors visit are every bit as intricate and full of secrets as the poem itself.Matthews, John: - JOHN is the author of many award-winning books, and known primarily for his work on the Arthurian and Grail traditions, John has also been active in exploring the empowerment of myth on the popular imagination. He was the historical advisor on Jerry Bruckheimer's film, King Arthur (2004, ) and his book Pirates was at the top of the New York Times best seller lists for 22 weeks in 2007.Matthews, Caitlin: - Caitlin is the author of over fifty books. She is internationally renowned for the depth and clarity of her research into the Celtic and ancestral traditions. Caitlin's CDs include: Deep Well in the Wildwood and Earth's Own Heart, released 2009. She is a co-founder of The Foundation for Inspirational and Oracular Studies, dedicated to the oral and sacred arts. She teaches all over the world and has a shamanic practice in Oxford. |