Angarad of the Golden Hand
Angharad of the Golden Hand
In the rich tapestry of Arthurian legend, Angharad of the Golden Hand stands as a captivating figure at the court of King Arthur. Renowned for her beauty and grace, she was the object of deep affection from Sir Peredur, one of the valiant knights of the Round Table. Despite Peredur’s unwavering love, Angharad scorned his advances, showing no interest in the noble knight.
Driven by his unrequited love, Peredur made a solemn vow—to remain silent until the day Angharad would love him above all others. This vow set Peredur on a path of solitude and introspection, earning him the moniker of the “Dumb Youth” or the “Young Mute.” Throughout his journey, Peredur faced numerous trials and adventures, each molding him into a stronger, more formidable knight. His silence, a constant reminder of his vow, became a symbol of his deep, unyielding love and dedication.
After enduring many hardships, Peredur returned to King Arthur’s court, though he was so changed by his ordeals that none recognized him, not even Angharad. When she encountered this mysterious knight, unaware that it was Peredur, she was profoundly moved by his silent strength and presence. Overcome with admiration, Angharad confessed that she loved him above all men, thus unknowingly breaking Peredur’s vow. With those words, Peredur was finally released from his silence, revealing his true identity to Angharad and the court.
Their story, steeped in themes of love, sacrifice, and transformation, illustrates the power of true devotion and the deep emotional journeys that often accompany it. Angharad and Peredur’s tale remains one of the many poignant narratives within the Arthurian legends, reflecting the complex interplay of love, honor, and fate that defines the epic tradition.
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SOURCE:
Encyclopedia of World Mythology and Legend, Third Edition – Written by Anthony S. Mercatante & James R. Dow– Copyright © 2009 by Anthony S. Mercatante