The Legend of Gelert
This Welsh legend tells the tragic tale of Prince Llywelyn and his faithful dog Gelert, illustrating themes of loyalty, hasty judgment, and devastating consequences.
Vocabulary: Llywelyn - A Welsh name, in this case referring to a legendary prince.
Prince Llywelyn, known for his bravery, had a special affection for his loyal dog Gelert. The story revolves around a fateful day when Llywelyn returns home to find his infant son's cradle overturned and Gelert covered in blood.
Highlight: This legend serves as a cautionary tale against making rash judgments without full information.
Assuming the worst, that Gelert had attacked his child, Llywelyn impulsively kills his faithful companion. Only moments later does he discover the truth - Gelert had actually protected the child from a wolf, whose body lay nearby.
Quote: [Insert a relevant quote from the text about Llywelyn's realization or remorse]
Overcome with grief and regret at his hasty action, Llywelyn honors Gelert's memory. The legend explains the origin of Beddgelert (meaning "Gelert's Grave" in Welsh), a village in Gwynedd, North Wales.
This poignant tale emphasizes the importance of trust, the dangers of acting on incomplete information, and the unbreakable bond between humans and their animal companions.