The Second Branch of the Mabinogi tells the epic and deeply tragic story of Bran the Blessed, the giant king of Britain, and his gentle sister, Branwen. It is a tale of a political marriage meant to bring peace, a grievous insult that spirals into abuse, and a catastrophic war that annihilates two nations.
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The Wedding Alliance
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The Insult & Suffering
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The Invasion & Aftermath
Click on a stage of the story to learn more.
The Sacrificial King
Bran the Blessed is a giant, able to wade across the Irish Sea. His story fits the archetype of the "sacrificial king," a ruler whose body is synonymous with the well-being of his land. His final command—to have his head severed and taken to London—transforms him into a protective totem for the Island of Britain.
Branwen: The Tragic Queen
Branwen ("White Raven") is a political pawn whose suffering is the catalyst for the war. She ultimately dies of a broken heart, lamenting the destruction of two nations because of her. She represents the suffering of women caught in the conflicts of men.
The Cost of War
The story ends in almost total annihilation. This chart visualizes the devastating losses suffered by both sides, highlighting the tale's core message about the horrific consequences of pride and vengeance.
Symbols of Power and Sorrow
Further Reading
Davies, Sioned (trans.) (2007). The Mabinogion.
The standard modern academic translation, providing deep insight into this epic tale.
Ford, Patrick K. (trans.) (2008). The Mabinogion and Other Medieval Welsh Tales.
A clear and powerful translation that captures the tragic grandeur of the Second Branch.