A Guide to Welsh Literature c. 1700‐1800

The complex eighteenth century is pivotal in the history of Welsh literature. Old systems of patronage had gone; Wales had no national institutions, no university. Welsh literature might well have declined further. Instead, the tradition of popular poetry continued, and new forms and new ideas emerged, sowing the seeds of modern Welsh literature. Inspiration was sought in the old classical past, which was explored in a scholarly manner. “Iolo Morganwg’s romantic vision created for Wales a new self‐image, and religious traditions, both Anglican and Dissenting, were infused with new enthusiasms, largely Methodist, which produced an influential corpus of literary work”....