School of Welsh

Research Interests

Her main research interest is the prose narrative tradition of the Middle Ages, and in particular the tales of the Mabinogion. In her research she has focused on the narrative techniques of the 'cyfarwydd' (storyteller), and the complex relationship between literacy, orality and aurality in medieval Wales. Her publications include ground-breaking articles in this field, as well as monographs such as Crefft y Cyfarwydd [The Art of the Storyteller] and Pedeir Keinc y Mabinogi [The Four Branches of the Mabinogi]. In 2007, Oxford University Press published her new translation of the Mabinogion tales; a paperback version has now also appeared in the World’s Classics Series.

Professor Davies’ interest in medieval performance and communication has led to her current research project on the dramatic preaching of 19th and 20th century Wales. Entitled Performing from the Pulpit, it focuses on the fiery preaching of Welsh Nonconformist ministers. She is also working on a new edition of Rhonabwy’s Dream for the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies.

Teaching Profile

BA in Welsh: Year One First Language

• CY1743 Llenyddiaeth Gymraeg (contributor)
• CY1744 O Destun i Draethawd (contributor)
• CY1745 Cymru a'i Diwylliant (contributor)

BA in Welsh: Year Two and Final Year

• CY3562 Pedeir Keinc y Mabinogi
• CY3404 Y Ferch yn yr Oesoedd Canol
• CY3447 Y Chwedl Arthuraidd
• CY2126 Blas ar Ymchwil

MA in Welsh

• CYD036 Crefft y Cyfarwydd
• CYD044 Arthur y Cymry

MA in Welsh Ethnological Studies

• CYD050 The Welsh Folk Narrative Tradition

MA in Early Celtic Studies

• CYD733 The Arthur of the Welsh