The narrative unfolds in a tumultuous period of Welsh history, focusing on Griffith, a young prince of Dyfed, and his sister Nest. Following the death of their father, the King of Dyfed, at the hands of the Normans, Griffith escapes captivity while his sister faces dishonor. Griffith seeks refuge with the King of Gwynedd, marrying his daughter, but soon finds himself embroiled in treachery as the English King Henry plots to capture him. Griffith learns of a conspiracy against him, prompting his flight to safety. He rallies the discontented Welsh people, who are suffering under oppressive feudal laws and foreign ecclesiastical control. The narrative highlights the people's desperation and their yearning for a leader to unite them against their oppressors. As Griffith gathers support, he emphasizes the betrayal by their princes and the need for solidarity among the common folk. He entrusts the cause of their liberation to the hands of the laborers and craftsmen, igniting a sense of hope and determination among them. The urgency of their situation is palpable, as Griffith warns of imminent danger and the need for swift action. The story delves into themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the struggle for identity and autonomy in the face of foreign domination. The characters embody the spirit of resistance, with Griffith emerging as a symbol of hope for the Welsh people. The narrative builds tension as the characters prepare for conflict, underscoring the stakes of their struggle for freedom and the preservation of their heritage.
By Sabine Baring-Gould · First published 1898 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Adventure, Drama