Math Mathonwy is a central figure in Welsh mythology, prominently featured in the Mabinogion, a collection of medieval Welsh tales. He is portrayed as a king and a magician, often associated with themes of sovereignty, wisdom, and the mystical arts. Math is depicted as the uncle and mentor of the hero Lleu Llaw Gyffes, and his own story intertwines with elements of intrigue, betrayal, and familial conflict. As a pivotal character in Welsh folklore, Math Mathonwy embodies the rich cultural heritage of Wales, where myth and history blend to narrate timeless tales of power and transformation.
Historical and Mythological Context
The character of Math Mathonwy appears predominantly in the Fourth Branch of the Mabinogi, often referred to as “Math fab Mathonwy.” This text, believed to have been composed around the 12th to 13th centuries, although rooted in much older oral traditions, provides a glimpse into the early medieval Celtic society and its beliefs.
Math is depicted as a powerful and wise ruler of Gwynedd, a kingdom in northern Wales. His dominion extends beyond mere earthly governance, encompassing the realms of magic and the supernatural. In the Celtic pantheon, deities often held multifaceted roles, and Math’s associations with magic and illusion highlight his importance within this mythological framework.
Math’s Unique Attributes
The Requirement of the Virgin Foot-holder
One of Math’s most distinctive traits is his peculiar need to have his feet held by a virgin whenever he is not engaged in battle. This requirement is not merely a whimsical characteristic but a profound symbol that reflects the intertwining of purity, sovereignty, and the mystical in Celtic culture. The virgin foot-holder serves as a guardian of his power and a channel for his magical abilities.
This role is initially filled by Goewin, who is described as the fairest maiden in the land. Her position is one of both honor and vulnerability, underscoring the delicate balance between power and protection in Math’s court.
Mastery of Magic and Transformation
Math’s magical prowess is legendary. He is depicted as a master of transformation and enchantment, abilities that he uses both to teach and to punish. His knowledge of magic is not merely for personal gain but serves as a tool for maintaining order and justice in his realm.
A notable example of Math’s transformative magic occurs when he punishes his nephews, Gwydion and Gilfaethwy, for their misdeeds. To atone for their sins, he transforms them into various animals, forcing them to experience life from different perspectives. This punishment is not only a demonstration of Math’s power but also a form of restitution and learning, reflecting the moral undertones of his magical abilities.
The Tale of Math, Gwydion, and Gilfaethwy
The story of Math, Gwydion, and Gilfaethwy is a central narrative in the Fourth Branch of the Mabinogi, illustrating themes of power, betrayal, and redemption.
The Rape of Goewin
The tale begins with the treacherous actions of Gwydion and Gilfaethwy. Driven by lust, Gilfaethwy falls in love with Goewin, Math’s virgin foot-holder. Gwydion, known for his cunning and resourcefulness, devises a plan to distract Math and facilitate Gilfaethwy’s desire.
Gwydion’s scheme involves stealing a herd of magical pigs from Pryderi, the king of Dyfed. These pigs, gifted to Pryderi by Arawn, the lord of the Otherworld, are highly coveted. Gwydion and his men disguise themselves as bards and visit Pryderi’s court, where they use their charm and magical skills to obtain the pigs.
With Math occupied by the ensuing conflict with Pryderi, Gwydion and Gilfaethwy seize the opportunity to assault Goewin. This act of betrayal and violation is a grievous offense, highlighting the complex interplay of loyalty, honor, and power in Math’s court.
Math’s Retribution
Upon discovering the crime, Math is enraged. His response is swift and severe, reflecting his commitment to justice and the sanctity of his court. Goewin is given the honor and protection due to her, and Math seeks to restore balance by meting out a fitting punishment to the offenders.
Gwydion and Gilfaethwy are transformed into a series of mating pairs of animals, experiencing life as deer, pigs, and wolves over three years. Each year, they produce offspring, which are taken in by Math and eventually returned to their human forms. This transformative punishment serves as both retribution and a means of imparting wisdom and humility to the errant nephews.
The Creation of Blodeuwedd
One of Math’s most renowned acts of magic is the creation of Blodeuwedd, a woman fashioned from flowers. This story intertwines themes of creation, beauty, betrayal, and transformation.
The Plight of Lleu Llaw Gyffes
Lleu Llaw Gyffes, Math’s nephew and a significant figure in Welsh mythology, is denied a human wife due to a curse placed on him by his mother, Arianrhod. Seeking to aid his nephew, Math, with Gwydion’s assistance, uses his magical abilities to create a wife for Lleu.
Blodeuwedd is formed from the blossoms of oak, broom, and meadowsweet, embodying the beauty and vitality of nature. She is given life and presented to Lleu as his bride. However, despite her enchanting origins, Blodeuwedd’s story takes a dark turn.
Betrayal and Transformation
Blodeuwedd, although created as a perfect wife for Lleu, falls in love with another man, Gronw Pebr. Together, they conspire to kill Lleu, exploiting the unique conditions under which he can be slain. Their plot succeeds, but Lleu transforms into an eagle and escapes.
Math and Gwydion eventually discover Lleu’s plight and restore him to human form. In retribution for her betrayal, Blodeuwedd is transformed into an owl, a creature associated with night and secrecy, forever marked by her actions. This transformation underscores the themes of justice and the inescapable consequences of one’s deeds in Welsh mythology.
The Symbolism of Math Mathonwy
Math Mathonwy embodies several key aspects of Welsh mythological and cultural values. His association with magic and illusion reflects a worldview where the supernatural is an integral part of the natural order. Math’s stories emphasize the importance of justice, the consequences of betrayal, and the transformative power of wisdom and experience.
Sovereignty and Purity
Math’s requirement for a virgin foot-holder symbolizes the purity and sanctity of his rule. This tradition underscores the Celtic emphasis on the sacredness of kingship and the belief that the ruler’s power is intertwined with the land and its people.
Magic as a Tool of Justice
Math’s use of magic is not arbitrary but serves to maintain order and impart lessons. His transformative punishments, whether for Gwydion and Gilfaethwy or Blodeuwedd, highlight the moral dimensions of his power. Magic, in Math’s hands, is a means of restoring balance and ensuring that justice prevails.
The Interplay of Nature and Supernatural
The creation of Blodeuwedd from flowers and her subsequent transformation into an owl illustrate the deep connection between nature and the supernatural in Welsh mythology. Math’s abilities to manipulate and transform reflect the belief in the fluid boundaries between the natural world and the realm of magic.
The Legacy of Math Mathonwy
Math Mathonwy’s tales, as preserved in the Mabinogion, continue to captivate and inspire. They offer a window into the rich mythological heritage of Wales and provide timeless lessons about power, justice, and the human condition.
In modern times, Math’s stories have been reinterpreted and adapted in various forms, from literature and art to popular culture. His legacy endures as a testament to the enduring power of myth and the universal themes that resonate across time and cultures.