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

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

February 15, 2024 • Wikimedia Community Ireland • Season 1 • Episode 2

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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:

Welcome to the Wikimedia community Ireland podcast, your portal to free knowledge and Irish culture.

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!