Ygerna

In Arthurian romance, the duchess of Cornwall, wife of Duke Gorlois. She is the mother of Arthur by Uther Pendragon, who appeared to her in the likeness of her husband with the help of Merlin. She marries Uther after the death of her husband. In return for his help, Merlin demands and receives the child of their union to raise.

In most medieval versions, Ygerna is portrayed as a faithful and virtuous wife. Her Welsh precursor is Eigr, who was considered to be one of the most beautiful women in Britain.

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References

Sources

  • Lacy, Norris J., ed. (1996). The New Arthurian Encyclopedia. New York: Garland.
  • MacKillop, James. (2004). Dictionary of Celtic Mythology. New York: Oxford University Press, Inc.