Story Summary
Discover the legend of The Red Dragon of Wales. King Vortigern, Merlin, and the underground battle between two dragons that defined the symbol of a nation.
King Vortigern, fleeing from Saxon invaders, sought to build a great fortress at Dinas Emrys. However, every night, the walls his masons built would crumble into the earth. His advisors claimed only the blood of a fatherless boy could appease the spirits of the ground. That boy was Merlin, who laughed at the advisors and told the King the truth: beneath the foundation lay a hidden lake containing two sleeping dragons. Vortigern ordered his men to dig, revealing a pool where a white dragon and a red dragon awoke and began a ferocious battle. At first, the white dragon seemed to win, but the red dragon summoned its strength and eventually drove the white one away. Merlin explained that the white dragon represented the Saxons and the red dragon represented the people of Wales. The prophecy foretold that though oppressed, the red dragon would eventually triumph, securing its place as the eternal symbol of the Welsh nation.
The Moral
True strength and national identity can overcome even the most daunting invaders when fueled by perseverance.
“The Red Dragon shall lead the way; his name shall be celebrated on every tongue.”
Fun Fact
Dinas Emrys is a real archaeological site where researchers found a pool and structures dating back to the time the legend is set. It remains a popular hiking destination today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of The Red Dragon of Wales?
The moral is that the spirit of a people and their identity can survive and eventually triumph over those who seek to conquer them. It emphasizes resilience and the power of heritage.
Who is the young boy in the story?
The boy is Merlin, known in Welsh as Myrddin Emrys, who would grow up to be the famous wizard of Arthurian legend. This story serves as one of his earliest prophetic appearances.
What do the two dragons represent?
The white dragon represents the invading Saxons, while the red dragon represents the native Britons, specifically the people who would become the Welsh. Their battle symbolizes the struggle for the land.
Why did King Vortigern's tower keep falling?
The tower collapsed because it was built over a secret underground lake. The movement and fighting of the two dragons trapped beneath the earth caused the foundations to shake and crumble every night.
Where is the site of the dragon battle located?
The legend takes place at Dinas Emrys, a real hillfort near Beddgelert in Snowdonia, Wales. Archaeologists have actually found evidence of a pool and fortifications at this site dating back to the 5th century.
Why is the red dragon on the Welsh flag?
The red dragon, or 'Y Ddraig Goch,' became a national symbol following Merlin's prophecy. It was officially adopted on the national flag in 1959, though it has been used by Welsh leaders for over a thousand years.
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