Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1113115 in Books
• Published on: 2002-03-04
• Format: Illustrated
• Original language: English
• Binding: Paperback
• 416 pages

Synopsis
An illustrated edition of a classic fantasy with over 50 full-colour paintings by the celebrated artist of "The Lord of the Rings". Widely recognized as the finest tales of Celtic mythology, the 11 stories were preserved in two Welsh collections, "The White Book of Rhydderch" (c.1300-1325) and "The Red Book of Hergest" (1375-1425), though the stories themselves hail from an oral tradition dating back to the 10th century. At the core of the book are tales of heroes and men, birth and death, gods and beasts, penance and vindication, kinship and kingship, battles and quests. "The Mabinogion" embraces much of ancient and early British culture, combining the numinous world of Celtic mythology, Arthurian legend and feudal Europe's Age of Chivalry. Indeed scholars have identified that it was out of "The Mabinogion" that the Arthurian legends were born.

Customer Reviews

A great book for any fantasy/celtic mythology lover's shelf.
A wonderful book. For any avid reader of celtic mythology, Tolkien or high fantasy, this would be a great addition to any collection. The translation from the original Welsh is beautifully executed and perfectly conjures up the mystical imagery of the Dark Age legends and stories. Not only this but Alan Lee has lent his extraordinary artistic skills to the book, adding stunning visuals to an already enchanting set of stories. This would be worth buying even if it were an art book on itself.

With the rising interest in fantasy and ancient mythology following the release of the film of Tolkien's Lord of the Rings, I think this would be a great source of information for those who are interested in the cultures and legends that influenced Tolkien himself.
Highly recommended.

One of poetry's finest masterpieces
This is undeniably the finest translation of this timeless classic. Unfortunately it perhaps doesn't command the pride of place in today's society that it should but hopefully a revival in interest for the works of Tolkien could do something to remedy that situation. What makes this version so good is how accessible it is to the modern reader and how beautifully illustrated it is. Would make a fine gift for anyone who loves to use their imagination.

A great essential in the study of myths, an amazing edition
Anyone having a serious interest in celtic myths and literature should read this amazing volume. It is obvious that a lot of care has been taken in publishing this edition and, though I do not normally care for illustrations, the work of Alan Lee is once again captivating. Definitly your first choise if interested in celtic and arthurian legends!