Prince of Annwn

Evangeline Walton

Book 1 in the series:Mabinogion Tetralogy

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In Prince of Annwn, Evangeline Walton presents a lyrical and earthy retelling of the medieval Welsh tale from the Mabinogion series. The story follows Pwyll, prince of Dyfed, as he embarks on a series of encounters with the uncanny, including meeting Arawn, king of Annwn, and his otherworldly bride, Rhiannon. Through haunting imagery and deepening romance, Walton expands upon the original myth, blending modern and older writing styles seamlessly to capture the essence of Welsh mythology.

Walton's writing style in Prince of Annwn is deceptively simple yet evocative, capturing the beauty, dread, and wonder of the story with concise descriptions and vivid imagery. The narrative delves into themes of human belief shaping reality, innovation, fear of death, and moral choices, all explored through the introspective thoughts and dialogues of the protagonist, Pwyll. Through her unique approach, Walton breathes life into ancient tales while adding depth and authenticity to the characters and their journeys.

Characters:

Characters are richly drawn, with Pwyll serving as a complex protagonist navigating various challenges.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style combines simplicity with lyrical imagery, drawing the reader into the story without complex language.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot centers on Pwyll's journey as he navigates kingship, encounters with the supernatural, and internal battles related to heritage and duty.

Setting:

The setting is a mythological Wales marked by cultural transition and supernatural elements.

Pacing:

The pacing is swift and keeps the reader engaged, although it may leave some narratives feeling incomplete.

Notes:

Evangeline Walton's Prince of Annwn is a modern take on the Mabinogion, focusing on Welsh mythology.

The story follows Pwyll, the prince of Dyved, who faces challenges related to his kingship and need for a family.

Pwyll has a connection with Arawn, a figure representing Death, and switches places with him for a year.

The narrative reflects a time of cultural change, transitioning from female-centered paganism to male-centered practices.

Walton's writing style is a blend of modern and older language, making it accessible to readers.

While the hero Pwyll does not significantly change, he experiences important insights and challenges.

Walton's retelling aims to add depth to the original stories while respecting their essence.

The series includes four books based on Welsh mythology, of which Prince of Annwn was the last published.

The book explores themes of death, belief, innovation, and personal growth.

Visually evocative descriptions capture the beauty and dread of the mythical world, as seen in the depiction of a goddess.

Pwyll's experiences intertwine with elements of the otherworldly, including encounters with gods and thematic explorations of morality.

The books are viewed as important in fantasy literature, influencing later works.

Original versions of the Mabinogion were often complex, but Walton makes them more relatable and engaging.

Readers have expressed a desire for more engagement with characters and themes in future volumes of the tetralogy.

Has Romance?

There is a moderate level of romance present as Pwyll pursues Rhiannon, emphasizing themes of love and partnership.

From The Publisher:

Death's Champion

When Prince Pwyll recognized the Grey Horseman who accosted him in the strange wood as King Arawn, whose other name was Death, he resigned himself to follow him to the drear kingdom of Annwn, where the souls of the departed dwelled.

But Arawn had not sought Pwyll to end his life, rather to set him a task--to fight the one enemy death himself could not overcome...and, for the combat, Pwyll would have to assume Arawn's own form. Pwyll, valiant and steadfast, prepared to meet his foe--but was unready for the greatest test he faced...the temptation of the love offered him by the lady whose husband's guise he wore!

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