Welsh Tales from the Mabinogion:
The Tale of Culhwch and Olwen

Once upon a time in the mystical land of Wales, a young prince named Culhwch was born to noble parents. His mother, before passing away, declared that he would only marry the beautiful Olwen, the daughter of the fearsome giant Ysbaddaden Pencawr. Culhwch’s stepmother, hoping to keep him from marrying, placed a curse on him, ensuring that he would be bound to this prophecy.

Culhwch grew up hearing tales of Olwen’s beauty and kindness, and he knew he must find her to break the curse. With determination in his heart, he set out to seek help from his cousin, the legendary King Arthur. Culhwch traveled far and wide until he reached Arthur’s court, where he was welcomed warmly.

“Cousin Arthur,” Culhwch began, “I need your help to find and marry Olwen, the daughter of Ysbaddaden Pencawr.” Arthur, known for his valor and kindness, agreed to help his young cousin. He summoned his bravest knights, including Sir Kay, Sir Bedivere, and Sir Gawain, and they set off on a grand adventure to find Olwen.

Their journey was fraught with challenges and dangers. They crossed treacherous mountains, navigated dense forests, and battled fierce creatures. Finally, after many days of travel, they arrived at the castle of Ysbaddaden Pencawr. The giant was as terrifying as the legends described, with eyes like blazing fire and a voice that shook the earth.

When Culhwch declared his intention to marry Olwen, Ysbaddaden laughed, revealing his sharp, menacing teeth. “Many have tried and failed,” the giant boomed. “But if you wish to marry my daughter, you must complete a series of impossible tasks.”

Culhwch, undeterred, agreed to the giant’s conditions. Ysbaddaden then listed the tasks, each more daunting than the last.

The First Task: Retrieving the Basket of Gwyddneu Garanhir

The first task was to retrieve the basket of Gwyddneu Garanhir, which was located in a distant land and guarded by fierce warriors. Culhwch and his companions set out on this perilous journey. They fought bravely against the warriors guarding the basket, using their wits and strength to overcome their enemies. After a fierce battle, they retrieved the basket and returned it to Ysbaddaden.

The Second Task: Securing the Comb and Scissors of Dillus the Bearded

Next, they had to obtain the comb and scissors that lay between the ears of the giant boar Twrch Trwyth. This task was particularly dangerous, as Twrch Trwyth was a fearsome beast known for his immense size and strength. Culhwch and his knights tracked the boar through dense forests and rugged terrain. They devised a clever plan to distract the boar while they retrieved the comb and scissors. With great courage and cunning, they succeeded and brought the items back to Ysbaddaden.

The Third Task: Finding Mabon, the Son of Modron

One of the most challenging tasks was to find Mabon, the son of Modron, who had been imprisoned since he was three nights old. They searched high and low, asking for help from various creatures, including the oldest animals in the land. They spoke to the wise Salmon of Llyn Llyw, who led them to the place where Mabon was held captive. Culhwch and his companions fought valiantly to free Mabon, rescuing him from his prison and returning with him to Ysbaddaden.

These were just a few of the numerous tasks set by Ysbaddaden. Each time they succeeded, Ysbaddaden grew more fearful, knowing that his end was near if Culhwch completed all the tasks.

The Final Task: Cutting Ysbaddaden’s Hair and Shaving His Beard

The last task was to cut Ysbaddaden’s hair and shave his beard, something no one had dared to do before. Culhwch and his companions faced this challenge with determination. They subdued the giant, using all their strength and skill to hold him still. Culhwch carefully cut Ysbaddaden’s hair and shaved his beard, completing the final task.

With the tasks accomplished, Ysbaddaden knew his time had come. He had no choice but to allow Culhwch to marry Olwen. As he had promised, he relinquished his daughter’s hand in marriage. Upon the completion of the tasks, Ysbaddaden fell, and the curse was lifted.

Culhwch and Olwen were married in a grand celebration, filled with joy and music. Their union brought peace and happiness to the land. King Arthur and his knights rejoiced, knowing that their bravery and camaraderie had triumphed over great adversity.

The tale of Culhwch and Olwen became a legend, told and retold through the generations. It was a story of courage, friendship, and the power of determination. It reminded everyone that no challenge is too great when faced with the support of true friends and the strength of the human spirit.

The End