<p><strong>William F. Skene was a scholar of Welsh folklore and legends; this book comprises a multitude of poems and stories from Cymric society, dating back as early as the 6^th century.</strong></p><p>A stunning history of Wales and early Welsh society, this collection unites thousands of lines of verse. Originally the property of a small group of private collectors living in the north of Wales, the papers were hidden in response to Henry VIII&rsquo;s dissolution of the monasteries, which had hitherto served as libraries with copies of the ancient folklore. The historical value of the Four Ancient Books of Wales is enormous; the rivalries and battles between the kings and nobles of the valleys are soundly explained by authors who were close to the action.</p><p>The subjects encountered in these poems range from the heroism displayed at certain battles, to mythological or semi-mythological accounts of Welsh heroes, to stories of brave adventure. The development of Wales as a country and distinctive culture forms a constant backdrop; the social allusions in these poems demonstrate how the country grew, with the picturesque Welsh valleys a familiar setting. Prominent poets of pre-12^th century Wales include Taliessin, Aneurin, Llywarch Hen, and Myrddin; these and many lesser-known examples populate the pages herein.</p>