Rhiannon holds a significant position in the foundational prose and mythology of Britain, particularly in the Mabinogi—a collection of narratives that were documented in the 12th and 13th centuries, stemming from earlier oral traditions by Welsh authors of the medieval era. As a prominent figure, Rhiannon is recognized as the Celtic goddess of the moon, with her name translating to ‘Divine Queen’ of the fairies.
Rhiannon’s narrative predominantly unfolds in the First Branch of the Mabinogi, with additional details in the Third Branch. She is depicted as a determined and otherworldly figure who ultimately chooses Pwyll, the Prince of Dyfed (located in West Wales), as her partner. This choice is made despite her prior engagement to another man, whom she deemed unsatisfactory. Throughout the tales, Rhiannon is characterized by her intelligence, political acumen, and is celebrated for her wealth and munificence.
Her initial appearance occurs at Gorsedd Arberth, an ancestral mound situated near one of Dyfed’s main courts. Here, Pwyll bravely accepts a challenge from the mound’s magical lore to showcase something wondrous. These mounds, often referred to as tors, were believed to be enchanted sites, thought to conceal pathways to the otherworld. Many avoided treading upon them, fearing they might become bewitched. After taking on the mound’s challenge, Rhiannon presents herself to Pwyll and his retinue as the extraordinary marvel that was promised. Dressed in shimmering gold and riding a striking white horse, she captivates Pwyll, although his companions express concern about her appearance.
Undeterred by his friends’ apprehensions, Pwyll sends his top horseman to pursue Rhiannon for two days in vain. Despite her horse’s steady pace, she remains elusive, deftly evading capture. By the third day, Pwyll himself takes up the chase, calling out for her to halt. Initially scornful of his pursuit, Rhiannon ultimately reveals that it was her intention to marry him rather than Gwawl ap Clud, the man she was bound to marry.
After two years of blissful marriage, pressure mounts for the couple to produce an heir, leading to the birth of their son in their third year of wedlock. This child, however, brings unforeseen turmoil into their lives. Following the customs of the time, six nursemaids were appointed to care for the newborn. In an unfortunate turn of events, the women fell asleep on duty one night, and upon awakening, they discovered the cradle empty—a scenario that filled them with dread of impending punishment. In a desperate bid to shift blame, they plotted to incriminate Rhiannon, who was still regarded as somewhat of an outsider. Fearing severe repercussions, the nursemaids killed a puppy, smeared its blood on Rhiannon while she slept, and scattered its remnants around her, falsely accusing her of infanticide and cannibalism.
Despite her declarations of innocence, Rhiannon was compelled to undergo a punitive ordeal. As part of her punishment, she was mandated to sit by the castle gate for seven years, enduring harsh winters and scorching summers. There, she recounted her tale to travelers and offered to carry them on her back like a beast of burden. Meanwhile, the infant was discovered by Teyrnon, the Lord of Gwent-Is-Coed (in South-Eastern Wales), who at first encountered the child in his true form, a young foal. He and his wife adopted the child, naming him Gwri Waalt Euryn, noting his golden hair. As the boy matured with remarkable speed and displayed a strong affinity for horses, Teyrnon recognized his resemblance to Pwyll—having served as a courtier at Pwyll’s palace. In an act of honor, Teyrnon returned the boy to his rightful family. Pwyll and his court quickly identified him as their son, later renaming him Pryderi. With the boy’s return, Rhiannon reclaimed her dignity and her rightful place beside Pwyll.
In various iterations of the legend, Rhiannon is also associated with the Celtic figure who later evolved into Vivienne, commonly known as the Lady of the Lake. This goddess is recognized for bestowing Arthur with the sword Excalibur, which enabled him to ascend as King in the tales of Camelot.
When Rhiannon is first introduced in the Mabinogi, her arrival as a mystical entity reflects the Otherworldly traditions entrenched in Gorsedd Arberth—her atypical yet elusive manner of moving can be perceived as both mystical and intriguing.
The essence of Rhiannon’s story continues to inspire a range of modern adaptations and performances across multiple mediums, including literature, theatre, film, and more. One notable example is the song “Rhiannon” by Fleetwood Mac, showcasing her enduring influence.
