Who Branwen is
Branwen is the sister of Bendigeidfran, also called Brân the Blessed, the giant king of Britain. Her story centers on a marriage between royal households and the harm caused by an insult.
Matholwch comes from Ireland to ask for her hand, and the offer is gladly accepted. A feast at Aberffraw celebrates the marriage, but anger within her family soon threatens the peace.
Branwen and the others in the story
Efnisien, half-brother to Branwen and Bendigeidfran, resents not being consulted about the match. He mutilates the horses of Matholwch's company, leaving Bendigeidfran to repair the insult with gifts.
Matholwch accepts the gifts and takes Branwen to Ireland, where she is welcomed at first. She gives birth to their son, Gwern, but the Irish nobles continue to brood over the insult.
How Branwen changes
The nobles turn their anger against Branwen, who is forced to work in the kitchen. The butcher strikes her every day, making her suffer for an insult she does not commit.
Branwen raises a starling and teaches it to speak, finding a way to reach her brother. She sends the bird across the sea with a letter tied beneath its wing.
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Who is Branwen's husband?
Branwen's husband is Matholwch, the king of Ireland. Their marriage is welcomed as a bond between the two royal households.
How is Branwen related to Bendigeidfran?
Branwen is Bendigeidfran's sister. He agrees to her marriage and tries to preserve peace after Efnisien insults Matholwch.
How does Branwen send a message home?
Branwen sends a trained starling to her brother across the sea. The bird carries her letter beneath its wing.
