Culhwch and Olwen Part 1: The Set Up

Ever find yourself wondering what people actually thought about hundreds of years ago, only to pick up an old book and get completely lost in the language? That’s where Bitching about Medieval Literature comes in. Host Gwen verch David guides you through these ancient texts in translation, but she doesn’t just offer a dry recitation. Instead, each episode is like sitting down with a friend who’s equally fascinated and frustrated by the material. You’ll hear the stories themselves, of course, but layered with lively commentary, necessary explanatory notes, and the kind of good-natured complaints that arise when dealing with characters who make bewildering choices. The first season is devoted entirely to Giovanni Boccaccio’s The Decameron, that sprawling and often raucous collection of tales framed by nobles fleeing the Black Death in 14th century Italy. Later, the focus shifts to a set of medieval Welsh stories from the 12th to 14th centuries, diving into a world rich with folklore, early Arthurian legend, and Celtic mythology. Along the way, bonus episodes pop up to tackle other curiosities from the period. This isn't a stuffy lecture; it's an accessible, conversational journey that makes these foundational works feel immediate and, above all, human. The podcast acknowledges that these texts can be brilliant, bizarre, and sometimes infuriating, all while unpacking why they still matter today.