A couple of years ago I spotted a book on friends' bookshelf; the book was Lady Charlotte Guest's The Mabinogion. I had read a translation of this text at university and it has always fascinated me. I searched for a copy of this book, but was unable to find anything as beautiful. And then, just before Christmas, I spotted a copy on a book website, in the United States, and bought it! I had to wait for the book to be delivered, but when I received it I certainly wasn't disappointed.
As well as this beautiful book I have also purchased a modern edition which is equally beautiful in an up to date fashion.
I have continued my current enjoyment of all things Arthurian by acquiring Local Place and the Arthurian Tradition in England and Wales.
The Mabinogion is a collection of Welsh tales that includes several stories about King Arthur and his knights. The stories are based on older oral traditions and are considered some of the earliest Welsh stories. Lady Charlotte Guest's translation was the first in English that proved popular. In fact, it became extremely popular, appearing during the Victorian era, with its obsession with Medievalism in art and literature. Pre-Raphaelite painting, the poetry of Tennyson – it was a perfect fit. Guest’s language is high toned, old-fashioned, and sometimes very beautiful.
I'm delighted with my purchases and looking forward to reading some more.