Gwenllian Explained

Gwenllian (or Gwenllïan) is Welsh given name, a combination of gwen "fair, blessed, white" and llian "flaxen"). It is most prominently know as the name of two women in medieval Wales who have, for different reasons, become symbols of Welsh patriotism and/or independence.

Notable people

Arts and entertainment

• Gwenllian Anthony, member of Adwaith
• Gwenllian Gill, actress

Athletes

• Gwenllian Jenkins, rugby union player
• Gwenllian Pyrs, rugby union player

Medieval Wales

• Gwenllian ferch Gruffydd (1097–1136) Her patriotic revolt and subsequent death in battle at Kidwelly Castle contributed to the Great Revolt of 1136
• Gwenllian ferch Llywelyn (1282–1337) A daughter of Llywelyn ap Gruffudd, Ein Llyw Olaf, and sister to Catherine his eldest daughter. Owain Glyndŵr was later to adopt the (lions rampant version) arms of Llywelyn on the basis of direct descent via Catherine, Catherine being the heraldic heiress of Llywelyn.^{[1] [2] [3] [4] [5]}

Politicians

• Gwenllian Lansdown, Plaid Cymru politician
• Gwenllian Morgan, first female mayor in Wales
• Siân Gwenllian, Plaid Cymru politician

In popular culture

Gwenllian is the name of a song by prominent Welsh songwriter Meic Stevens and Anglesey rock band Calfari, based on Gwenllian ferch Gruffydd. It is also the name of the summit Carnedd Gwenllian in the Carneddau, named after Gwenllian ferch Llywelyn.

A character in The Raven Cycle by American author Maggie Stiefvater is named Gwenllian.

See also

• Gwen (given name)

Notes and References

1. The Golden Grove 1641 Pedigree - Carmarthenshire County Archive.
2. Dwnn, L. 'The Heraldic Visitation of Wales', Vol II, 1846, p. 24.
3. Web site: The Royal Families of England, Scotland, and Wales, with Pedigrees of Royal Descents in Illustration . 51. Sir Bernard Burke, C.B., LL.D., Ulster King of Arms. 1876 .
4. Siddons M P: 'The Development of Welsh Heraldry', Vol. 1, p. 287, NLW 1991.
5. Owen, Edward: ‘Owain Lawgoch – Yeuain de Galles: Some Facts and Suggestions’, The Transactions of the Honourable Society of Cymmrodorion, p. 16, Session 1899-1900