THE WELSH HISTORICAL CONTINUUM: THE CODES JESUS 141 AND NLW 5277B

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Abstract

The article examines the so-called complete version of the Welsh historical continuum as preserved in two codices: Jesus College MS 141 and National Library of Wales 5277B. The latter, compiled by John Jones of Gellilyfdy between 1604 and 1608, is a precise copy of the earlier codex compiled by Gutun Owain no later than 1497. The study focuses on Y Bibyl Ynghymraec – the opening text in the continuum – a Welsh translation of Peter of Poitiers’ (c. 1125–1205) widely circulated Compendium historiae in genealogia Christi. By analysing Y Bibyl and its characteristic interpolations, the author demonstrates the central role that medieval Welsh historical writing accorded to Old Testament genealogies in narrating the origins of the Britons/Welsh. The Trojan context equally significant within this framework: the fall of Ilion was construed as inaugurating a new historical era – one distinct from all preceding ages in its measurability – which made possible the synchronisation of historical events. The article also explores the sources underpinning the development of this tradition and the distinctive features of its transmission. It is suggested that the limited circulation of the continuum’s first text might have resulted from the absence of a clearly defined genre, which impeded its broader reception; the established conventions of the Welsh genealogical tradition may likewise have constrained its dissemination.

About the authors

S. E. Fyodorov

Institute of History, St. Petersburg State University

Author for correspondence.
Email: s.fedorov@spbu.ru
Saint-Petersburg, Russia

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