Pryderi fab Pwyll is a central figure in Welsh mythology, appearing in all Four Branches of the Mabinogi with varying degrees of prominence. He is the son of Pwyll, Lord of Dyfed, and Rhiannon, and becomes the king of Dyfed following his father’s death.

Pryderi’s life is marked by both triumph and tragedy. He faces numerous challenges and adversities, including being abducted as an infant, raised by another family, and later reconciled with his true parents. After ascending to the throne of Dyfed, Pryderi embarks on military campaigns to expand his kingdom’s territory and marries Cigfa, further solidifying his rule.

However, Pryderi’s fate takes a tragic turn during the conflict with Gwynedd, where he suffers defeat and ultimately meets his demise in single combat against Gwydion, a powerful magician and warrior. His death is mourned by the people of Dyfed, marking the end of an era for the kingdom.

Throughout his life, Pryderi exemplifies qualities of bravery, leadership, and resilience, but also faces the consequences of rashness and hubris. His story serves as a poignant reflection on the complexities of power, fate, and human nature within Welsh mythology.

Pryderi’s presence extends beyond the Mabinogi into various other Welsh texts and poems, showcasing his enduring significance within Welsh mythology and literature.

In the Welsh Triads, Pryderi is celebrated as one of the ‘Three Powerful Swineherds of the Island of Britain’, recalling an event where he guarded the pigs of his foster-father at Glyn Cuch. Additionally, the enigmatic poem Preiddeu Annwfn hints at a conflict involving Pryderi and Gweir ap Gwystyl, suggesting a deeper layer of mythological narrative.

Pryderi’s name also appears in the Stanzas of the Graves, which describe his final resting place as Aber Gwenoli, where the waves crash against the land, adding to the mystique surrounding his character.

Moreover, the Book of Taliesin contains a poem called “Song before the sons of Llyr,” which mentions Pryderi and his association with Caer Sidi, an otherworldly fortress. This poem highlights Pryderi’s connection to the realm of the divine and emphasizes his importance in the mythological landscape.

Various bards and poets throughout history have referenced Pryderi in their works, including Einion fab Gwalchmai, Howel Foel ap Griffri, Cynddelw Brydydd Mawr, and the renowned poet Dafydd ap Gwilym, who referred to Dyfed as Pryderi Dir, indicating Pryderi’s enduring legacy in Welsh literature.

Overall, these references underscore Pryderi’s role as a central figure in Welsh mythology, symbolizing bravery, kingship, and the enduring power of myth and legend.