Welsh Magic & Folklore Unveiled: Exploring the Feminist Narratives in Welsh Folklore & Tradition with Mhara Starling

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In this enchanting episode, we delve into the magical realms of Welsh folklore and bardic traditions with our special guest, Mhara Starling. Hailing from North Wales and raised on the Isle of Anglesey, Mhara is not only a native Welsh speaker but also a transgender woman deeply immersed in traditional practices since childhood. Known for her popular witchcraft videos on TikTok, Mhara is a celebrant, tarot reader, and the author of 'Welsh Witchcraft,' a celebrated exploration of the magical traditions rooted in the landscape of Wales.

As part of our ongoing commitment to the WikiLovesFolklore project's Feminism and Folklore campaign, this episode uncovers the rich tapestry of Welsh folklore with some of its feminist folk tales and how women were, in fact, central to many of the societal roles that previously had been solely attributed to men. From the mystical concept of Awen to the deep connection with the natural world, explore the intersections of language, culture, and magic. Get ready for a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of Welsh traditions with our delightful guest.

Books and Resources mentioned by Mhara in the Podcast:

• Four Branches of the Mabinogi
  • Learn more about it here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mabinogion
  • And here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Four_Branches_of_the_Mabinogi
  • You can find Lady Charlotte Guest's translation here: https://www.gutenberg.org/files/5160/5160-h/5160-h.htm
• The Mabinogion (2008) translated by Sioned Davies
• Pagan Portals - Rhiannon: Divine Queen of the Celtic Britons by
  Jhenah Telyndru
• Pagan Portals - Blodeuwedd: Welsh Goddess of Seasonal Sovereignty by
  Jhenah Telyndru
• Forthcoming Anthology by Ninth Wave Press: https://sisterhoodofavalon.org/ninth-wave-press/
• Cerridwen: Celtic Goddess of Inspiration by Kristoffer Hughes

Find Mhara on Social Media:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mhara_starling/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MharaStarling
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mhara_starling
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@mharastarling2730?feature=shared

From her publisher:

• Author Profile: https://www.llewellyn.com/author.php?author_id=6824
• Author Blogpost:

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Intro contains Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/achaidh-cheide
License code: JBQCMVAHZIMU692D

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Go raibh míle maith agaibh as éisteacht linn, thank you very much for listening!