Meyn Mamvro - No 015 - Summer 1991

Magazine Overview

Title: Meyn Mamvro
Issue: No. 15
Date: Summer 1991
Price: £1.50

This issue of Meyn Mamvro, subtitled "ancient stones and sacred sites in cornwall," is dedicated to exploring the Arthurian connections within Cornwall. It features articles by prominent authors in the field, aiming to delve deeper into the historical and mythological reality behind the legends.

Arthurian Cornwall

The magazine dedicates a significant portion to the Arthurian legend in Cornwall. The lead article, "ARTHURIAN CORNWALL," sets the stage by examining the popularisation of the legend and the quest for its underlying reality.

Tintagel

The article "TINTAGEL" by Cheryl Straffon (CS) critically assesses the claim that Tintagel is King Arthur's birthplace. It points out that the castle dates from the 12th century and that Geoffrey of Monmouth's association in 1135 is the primary source. However, archaeological findings indicate that the site was a post-Roman stronghold or citadel of local royalty in the 5th-6th centuries AD, with Mediterranean trading links. This makes it a plausible settlement for a figure like Arthur, despite the lack of direct evidence and the desire of archaeologists to separate historical research from the 'Arthurian hype'. The article concludes that while 'King Arthur's Car Park' can be dismissed, the possibility of Tintagel as his birthplace cannot be entirely ruled out.

King Arthur in Cornwall

Cheryl Straffon's article "King Arthur in Cornwall" delves into the historical and mythological roots of Arthur's presence in the region. It recounts an incident in 1113 where French priests visiting Bodmin heard claims that King Arthur still lived, which was corroborated by local Cornishmen. The article suggests that Cornwall may have more Arthurian sites than any other part of Britain, citing Geoffrey Ash's belief that Arthur likely had a dwelling there. It explores early Welsh Triads that associate Arthur with Cornwall, often in a mythological context. The piece references early texts like the Black Book of Carmarthen and Welsh's Life of St Gildas, which allude to Arthur's men and his involvement in freeing Guinevere. It also mentions the legend of a special table made for Arthur by a carpenter and the story of Arthur chasing the boar Trwyth into Cornwall. The article touches upon the pagan origins of Arthurian elements, suggesting a possible sun-god incarnate in a human body, and how these were incorporated into later romances. It discusses Arthur's supposed birth in Cornwall as the illegitimate son of Uther Pendragon and Ygerne, and his youthful years possibly spent at Kelliwic. The article also mentions other fortifications associated with Arthur and the historical context of Cornwall's resistance to the Anglo-Saxons. Finally, it references the legend of Arthur fighting the Danes at Sennen near Lands End.

Tristan and Iseult

Joy Wilson's article "Tristan and Iseult: Tracing the legend in Cornwall" explores the potential reality behind this legend. While King Arthur appears in the earliest versions, the article focuses on other characters like Tristan, King Mark of Cornwall, and Iseult the Fair. It suggests that the story may be based on an earlier Cornish telling of an event at a 6th-century Cornish ruler's stronghold, involving betrayal and adultery. The tale, as retold by the minstrel Beroul, is set in Cornwall and involves illicit love, pagan magic, and jealousy. The article recounts key plot points, including Tristan's defeat of Morholt, his meeting with Iseult the Fair, the magic love potion, their flight to the Forest of Morrois, and their eventual tragic deaths. It notes the legend's connection to place names and the eventual burial of the lovers in Cornwall, with a hazel and honeysuckle plant growing from their graves.

Other Arthurian Sites and Legends

Several other articles contribute to the Arthurian theme:

• "Guide to Arthurian sites in Cornwall" and "Arthur at the Land's End" by Craig Weatherhill likely provide practical information for visiting sites associated with Arthur.
• "The Battle of Vellan-Druchar" by Ron Newsome and "Dor Dama 'Branwen'" by Richard Seddon may explore specific local legends or historical events.

Ancient Sites and Preservation Concerns

An editorial piece titled "Stones of our Motherland" highlights the increasing pressure on ancient sites in Cornwall, particularly in West Penwith. It details instances of intervention by official bodies, such as the renovation of Men-an-Tol, the capping of Carn Euny beehive hut, the removal of Cornish stone hedges near the Merry Maidens, and plans to restore Carn Glûze Barrow. The author expresses concern that these efforts, while often well-intentioned, are symptomatic of a desire to "tidy up" or interfere with sites that should be left as they are or merely maintained. The article warns against turning Cornwall into a "fenced-in, walled-round, covered-over, re-built and guided-tour archaeological theme park" and urges people to prioritize the preservation of the sites' unspoiled nature and living energies.

Cornish Earth Mysteries Group

The "Cornish earth news page" details the activities of the Cornish Earth Mysteries Group, which has been active for eighteen months. The group has hosted talks by various speakers on ancient sites, dowsing, and ley lines. They have organised a dowsing day and a ley walk. For the summer, they have planned a series of Field Days at specific sites, including Tregeseal Stone Circle, Nine Maidens (Boskednan) Stone Circle, and Boscawen-un Stone Circle, focusing on interests such as magnetic anomaly work, ultra-sound testing, and dowsing.

Noticeboard and Events

The "NOTICEBOARD" section lists various upcoming events and activities in Cornwall, including pagan festivals (Obby Oss Day), walks (Three Wells Walk, Tinners Way), workshops (Womencraft Workshop), and regular events like Circle Dancing. It also highlights the Wellbeing Centre and the Research & Enlightenment Centre.

Books and Publications

The issue includes "Book Reviews" and mentions new titles from Bossiney Books, such as "Mysteries of the Cornish Landscape" by Tamsin Thomas and "Supernatural in Cornwall" by Michael Williams.

Visions and Journeys

A section titled "Visions And JOURNEYs" advertises exhibitions and displays, including works by Paul Lewin, Derek & Jennifer Jenkins, Becky Clarke, Sue Lewington, and Sheila Ansell, focusing on local art and Celtic themes. It also lists various personal development courses and alternative therapies available in the Penwith area.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the Arthurian legend, its historical and mythological basis in Cornwall, and the preservation of ancient sites. The magazine takes a stance that advocates for a deeper, more authentic understanding of these legends and sites, cautioning against over-commercialization and interference that could diminish their spiritual significance. There is a clear emphasis on the unique heritage of Cornwall and the importance of respecting its ancient past. The editorial also highlights the magazine's commitment to quality and its role as a unique publication for Cornwall.

This issue of MEYN MAMVRO, number 15 from Summer 1991, is dedicated to exploring the rich tapestry of Arthurian sites and legends within Cornwall. The magazine delves into both the Tristan and Iseult legends and the broader King Arthur myths, connecting them to specific geographical locations and historical interpretations.

The Tristan and Iseult Legend in Cornwall

The issue begins by examining the Tristan Stone, a 6th-century granite monument near Fowey, Cornwall. The inscription 'DRUSTANUS HIC IACIT CUNOWORI FILIUS' ('Here lies Drustanus, son of Cunomoris') is discussed, with Drustanus being a rare Dark Age name. The article notes that while the name Drustan/Tristan was in use in Cornwall, the stone's inscription might hint at a more scandalous relationship with King Mark's queen, linking it to the legend. The existence of King Mark himself is supported by historical mentions and Breton legends. The 16th-century traveller Leland recorded another inscription on the stone, 'CUM DOMINA CLUSILLA' ('with the lady Clusilla'), which some scholars suggest could refer to Iseult (Eselt). The stone also features a T-shaped Tau cross, possibly a Druidic symbol of eternity, and a later wheel-headed cross carving.

Castle Dor, an ancient Iron-Age earthwork overlooking the Fowey and Par estuaries, is identified as a potential site related to King Mark, though its role as his stronghold is now doubted. The article highlights its strategic importance. Lantyan, near Fowey, is presented as a possible location for King Mark's south coast palace, 'Lancien', as mentioned in Beroul's poem. Lantyan Barton, a former Cornish manor, has fields named 'Mark'sgate', further strengthening the connection. Paths from Lantyan wood lead to the Fowey river, suggesting a departure point for Tristan and Mark to Brittany.

The Saint's Way pilgrimage route passes through Lantyan, leading to a place identified on medieval documents as 'Chastell' or 'Lantyan Parva'. Field-names like Castle Moor and Gallows Down are noted. The article proposes that Castle Meadow, with its commanding view of the Fowey river and a former ford, and its proximity to Restormel Castle, might have been Mark's palace citadel, despite no visible traces remaining.

Saint Samson's Isle and Church are discussed in relation to the legend of Tristan's duel with the Irish Morholt. The article questions whether this duel took place on Saint Samson's Isle or a distant Samson in Scilly. Saint Samson's connection to the area is traced through his 'Life', noting his founding of a monastery on the banks of the Fowey at Golant. The church stands on the site of his lan, and it is suggested that Iseult brought a gift of a silken robe to his church. Saint Samson also occupied a cave on the riverbank for penitential immersions and is said to have vanquished a serpent there. His education in Wales gave him knowledge of Druidic wisdom, useful when encountering pagan festivals.

Other locations linked to the legend include Roche Rock, a site of hermitage since Celtic times, potentially sanctifying a pagan ritual site, and the Forest of Morrois/Moresk, a refuge for Tristan and Iseult from King Mark, near Truro. The area still has old oaks and a track leading to the perilous ford of Malpas. Blancheland, across the river from Malpas, was historically known as 'Alba Landa' or 'Chyrgwin' (white land), possibly due to quartz stones. Chacewater is identified as a royal hunting ground. Goodern (Woderon in Domesday) is named as the meadow where Iseult's trial with reliquaries took place. It also features a square earthwork and a mound said to be the burial place of King Teudar. The name Eselt (Iseult) is linked to a 10th-century royal charter defining Saxon boundaries near St Keverne, where a fording place was named 'Hryt Eselt' ('Iseult's ford'). The article concludes that while place names and inscriptions don't definitively prove the Tristan and Iseult story, the abundance of associated names suggests it may have originated from a local family drama.

Arthurian Sites in Cornwall

The magazine then shifts focus to King Arthur and his connections to Cornwall, particularly West Penwith.

Tintagel Castle is presented as a spectacular site, though its association with Arthur dates only to the 12th century, despite being a 5th-century centre of power. It is described as having remains of a 13th-century castle and holy wells. Features pointed out by 1850s guides include 'King Arthur's Seat', 'Window', 'Elbow Chair or Bed', and 'Cups & Saucers', which may be natural rock formations or man-made cup marks. King Arthur's Footprint is a cavity in the rock at Tintagel, possibly used for inauguration rituals. Merlin's Cave, at the bottom of Tintagel Castle, is where legend states Merlin snatched baby Arthur from the sea. King Arthur's Quoit is a collection of broken stones north of Tintagel, originally a natural feature. Bossiney Mound is associated with the legend of Arthur's golden Round Table buried beneath it, with inexplicable lights seen nearby.

St Nectan's Glen features a glen with a waterfall where the Knights of the Round Table supposedly bowed in prayer before their quest for the Holy Grail, a myth re-working of a pagan descent into the underworld.

King Arthur's Tomb is reputedly at Slaughter Bridge, near Camelford, the site of the Battle of Camlann, where Arthur received his fatal wound. An inscribed stone there reads 'LATINI IC IACIT FILIVS MAGARI'. Arthur's courts are mentioned, with 'Kelli Wic in Cornwall' being identified with Killibury Castle or Castle Canyke. King Arthur's Hunting Lodge is identified as Castle-an-Dinas, an Iron Age hill fort near St Columb, from where Arthur supposedly hunted over Goss Moor. King Arthur's Hall is located on King Arthur's Downs on Bodmin Moor, a megalithic rectangular construction predating Arthur, with an unknown purpose. King Arthur's Bed is another natural example on Bodmin Moor.

Dozmary Pool on Bodmin Moor is the legendary site where Arthur's sword Excalibur was taken at his death and thrown into the waters to the Lady of the Lake. The ritualistic elements of this story, including Sir Bedivere's three attempts to return the sword, are noted. Loe Pool near Helston is an alternative site for this legend.

Arthur at the Lands End

Craig Weatherhill contributes an article exploring Arthurian connections with West Penwith. He proposes a new theory for Arthur's identity. The article discusses the Battle of Vellan-druchar, a powerful tale of Arthur's victory against 'Sea Kings' or 'Danes' at Gwenver. This battle is described as a crushing victory for Arthur, with the mill at Vellansaga reportedly worked with blood. A local wise-woman's spell to strand the invasion ships is mentioned, and red-haired folk in Sennen are still referred to as 'Red-haired Danes'.

The victory feast is said to have been held on the Table-maen at Mayon, a large flat-topped boulder, one of several 'Holy Rocks' or 'Carrack Sans' that were once features of townplaces in Sennen and St Levan. Merlin is said to have appeared at this feast to utter a prophecy.

The legend of the victory feast is also attached to other stones, including one near Bosavern and the Four Parishes Stone. The article debunks the idea that Lanyon Quoit is related to this legend. It discusses Hals' claim of seven Saxon kings dining at the Table-maen around 600 AD, refuting it based on historical timelines. The 'nine kings' with Arthur are interpreted as possibly representing three war-hosts of 100 men each, from the region of 'Pagus Tricurius'.

Minor traditions include the old man of Pendeen's tales of giants vanquished by Arthur. The cliff castle of Treryn Dinas (St Levan) is mentioned as having been in Arthur's possession. Bosigran Castle is suggested as another site possibly occupied by him. The headland of Penrhyn Awstin is linked to the hunt for the boar in 'Culhwch and Olwen', possibly meaning 'promontory of tin', and therefore Penwith.

Robert Hunt's sources often referred to Arthur as 'Prince', suggesting he was young when in Cornwall. While Hunt's version specifies Tintagel as Arthur's home, older traditions and Welsh Triads point to Kelliwic. Tintagel is consistently cited as Arthur's birthplace, implying he was a guest of the King of Dumnonia if he was an active soldier there.

Historians like Professor Charles Thomas suggest Tintagel was a seasonal seat of Dumnonian kings, supporting its Arthurian claim. The article emphasizes that while many places claim to be the site of Arthur's last battle or supernatural sleep, only Tintagel claims his birth.

Merlin's legend is also present in Penwith, where he is referred to as Ambrose Merlin. His story is partly based on the northern bard Myrddin. His name was changed to Merlin by Geoffrey of Monmouth. Merlin's Rock at Mousehole recalls his prophecy of destruction fulfilled by the Spanish raid of 1595. Merlin is also associated with a prophecy concerning the split stone in St Levan churchyard. In West Cornwall, the loggan of Men Amber is linked to a prophecy that 'England had no king', which was deliberately dislodged by Roundheads during the Civil War. The article questions Merlin's use of the term 'England'.

At the Table-maen, Merlin's prophecy was grander, foretelling the return of Northmen, bloodshed, and the day of Doom.

The Vellan-druchar story is re-examined, suggesting 'Saxon' for 'Danish'. The article discusses Riothamus, a 'king of the Britons' who campaigned in Gaul and was betrayed. It is questioned whether Arthur was the actual name of Riothamus. The expelled Saxons raiding Eire and Biscay are also mentioned. The article posits that Arthur, as a young officer under Ambrosius, may have fought in Penwith in the mid-470s, with his victory at Mount Badon around 490 and Camlann in 511.

The article concludes by stating that the Arthurian tradition in Cornwall should not be dismissed lightly, as it is historically credible. It also touches upon the legend of Lyonesse, the lost land, and its connection to Arthur's defeat at Camlann. The traitor Mordred is said to have chased Arthur's men to the Land's End, where the ghost of Merlin caused the land to sink, drowning Mordred. The newly created Isles of Scilly are where Arthur's men founded Tresco Abbey. The article stresses the importance of preserving Penwith's legendary heritage from tourist-driven alterations.

Additional evidence for the Scillies being Arthur's last resting place is found in the names of the Eastern Isles: Great, Middle, and Little Arthur. The pre-Christian mystic importance of the Isles as the Otherworld is linked to Arthur and Avalon, with legends of him sleeping in the mightiest cairn on Great Arthur.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of legend, folklore, and potential historical roots in Cornwall. It aims to present these stories and locations in a way that respects their cultural significance and encourages a deeper understanding beyond superficial tourist interpretations. The editorial stance appears to be one of valuing authentic heritage and historical inquiry, while acknowledging the power and enduring appeal of myth and legend. The coverage of both Tristan and Arthur suggests a focus on the rich medieval and post-Roman history of the region.

MEYN MAMVRO | Issue 15 | Summer 1991

This issue of MEYN MAMVRO, a magazine focused on Earth Mysteries, Sacred Sites, and related topics, presents a diverse range of articles, reviews, and personal reflections. The cover story, "THE BATTLE OF VELLAN-DRUCHAR," by Ron Newsome, recounts a legendary conflict between King Arthur's forces and Danish invaders in Cornwall. The magazine also features a significant exploration of the "ARTHURIAN MYSTERY" by Richard Seddon, which challenges conventional views of King Arthur and proposes a theory of Arthur as a rank within a mystery center at Tintagel, drawing on the ideas of Rudolf Steiner. Book reviews, personal accounts of spiritual experiences in the Cornish landscape, and listings of other relevant publications and events round out the content.

The Battle of Vellan-Druchard

Ron Newsome's article details a significant, though possibly legendary, battle in Cornwall. The story begins with the sighting of a Danish fleet off Lands End, prevented from landing by a heavy surf. The local people raised an alarm using beacon fires, which quickly spread across the region, reaching Prince Arthur at Tintagel. Arthur rallied his men, forming a force of 'Nine Kings and their armies,' and marched towards Lands End. The Danes, having landed at Gwenvor Cove and looted the hamlet of Escals, were caught by Arthur's approaching army. They retreated inland to the plain of Vellan-druchar, where the battle took place. The fight was fierce, and by nightfall, the Danes were destroyed, but at a great cost, with Vellan-druchar said to have been 'worked with blood.' The article further describes how the remaining Danish forces attempted to escape by sea, but a woman, whose name is lost to time, conjured a powerful west wind that swept their fleet ashore, destroying it. The narrative concludes by noting the lack of modern memorials to this battle, suggesting Arthur's legend has become clouded by myth, though place names like Gwenver and Escalls survive.

Arthurian Mystery

Richard Seddon's article, "ARTHURIAN MYSTERY," delves into questions surrounding King Arthur's connection to Tintagel and megalithic sites. Seddon questions the historical evidence beyond Geoffrey of Monmouth's account of Arthur's birth and the widespread association of Arthur's name with megalithic structures. He references Chrestien de Troyes' "Perceval," which mentions Gawain going to Tintagel. Seddon then presents a viewpoint, influenced by Rudolf Steiner, that 'Arthur' was not a single person but a rank held by many individuals over centuries. This Arthur was the leader of a mystery center at Tintagel, akin to Greek centers like Delphi, tasked with guiding chosen souls through spiritual experiences and transmitting cosmic knowledge from megalithic times. The article explains that the twelve knights of the Round Table represented constellations, with Arthur and Gwenhwyvar symbolizing the sun and moon. Arthur's 'twelve battles' are interpreted as inner struggles against primal qualities. The Arthurian center was dedicated to Archangel Michael, and Tintagel's strategic location, defensibility, and resources made it ideal. Seddon's book, "The Mystery of Arthur at Tintagel," further explores Welsh legends as portrayals of souls progressing through planetary realms, a path originating from megalithic times and adapted for the post-Christian era.

Book Reviews

The magazine features two book reviews. The first reviews two guides by Ian Cooke in the "Antiquities of West Cornwall" series: "CARN EUNY IRON AGE VILLAGE & FOGOU" and "THE TINNERS WAY (ST JUST TO ST IVES)." These guides are praised for their production quality, detailed notes, maps, and reproductions of drawings, with "The Tinners Way" also including color photographs. Ian Cooke's work is noted for its deep understanding of sacred sites and an empathic approach to their use, including details of alignments and earth magic. The second review discusses Tamsin Thomas's "MYSTERIES IN THE CORNISH LANDSCAPE," a paperback that brings local earth mysteries research to a wider audience. It highlights the book's focus on the 'special magic' and 'relationship to Mother Earth' of ancient sites, mentioning Ian Cooke's discovery of possible axe-heads at Boscawen-ûn. The reviewer, CS, welcomes such books for providing accurate information with an awareness of spiritual qualities.

Personal Reflection: 'Dor Dama' Column

The "Dor Dama" column, meaning 'Earth Mother' in Cornish, features a personal account by Branwen. She describes her move to Cornwall and the profound effect the landscape of West Penwith has had on her. Initially drawn by the promise of support from friends, her first visit to Gurnards Head on October 31st was marked by a sense of 'home' and a powerful, almost overwhelming, experience of light, color, and natural sounds. In February 1986, she moved to West Penwith and later experienced a severe nervous breakdown in London, feeling a lack of purpose and overwhelming struggle. Upon returning to West Penwith, she found solace and began a journey of healing. Advised to find a faith, she developed a passion for ancient religion and the Goddess. Her experience has led to a growing awareness of natural energies, time, tides, and weather, and a 'carefree life-energy' that has soothed her pain. She now combines nature walks with visiting ancient sites, feeling more able to 'tune in' to the landscape's atmosphere. West Penwith has healed her and made her strong, and she sees the temporal world as a small part of a larger spiritual reality.

The Pipers Tune: Menhirs as Boundary Markers

This section reviews an article from "Cornish Archaeology" (No.29) by Frances Peters, an archaeologist at Southampton. The article, "The possible use of West Penwith menhirs as boundary markers," analyzes the location and intervisibility of standing stones in West Penwith in relation to Williams' theory of their ritual significance and use as cult centers. Peters divides the sites into six main areas and examined 95 menhirs, of which 43 are extant. However, the article does not specify which menhirs were used, making it difficult to test the hypothesis. The review notes that while some menhirs might have served as boundary markers, their positioning also suggests horizon and astronomical alignments, indicating a more complex function. The review draws a parallel to John Michell's earlier work on "The Old Stones of Lands End," noting that archaeologists are now catching up with 'ley hunters.' The article's findings indicate that a significant number of menhirs were intervisible, suggesting a deliberate placement for ritual and ceremonial purposes of 'more than local significance.'

Exchange Magazines and Events

The magazine includes extensive listings of other publications available through exchange, categorized into "EARTH MYSTERIES & SACRED SITES" and "PAGANISM." These listings provide titles, brief descriptions, subscription details, and contact information for various magazines focusing on topics like ley hunting, earth mysteries, paganism, New Age, and Celtic traditions. A separate section lists "EXCHANGE MAGAZINES" that MEYN MAMVRO supports, including "THE LEY HUNTER," "NORTHERN EM," "GLOUCESTER EM," "LONDON EM," "TOUCHSTONE," "MERCIAN MYSTERIES," "MARKSTONE," "EARTH EM," "THE CEREOLOGIST," "RILKO," "EARTH PULSE," and "HIDDEN HISTORY." It also lists pagan journals such as "THE CAULDRON," "THE PIPES OF PAN," "WOOD AND WATER," "DALRIADA," "THE UNICORN," "DEOSIL DANCE," "QUEST," "MOONSHINE," and "BELTANE FIRE." Additionally, contact details for "ASH - Albion's Sacred Heritage," "O FORTUNA!," "ACE OF RODS," "ACCA & ADDA," and US-based publications like "HARVEST" and "CIRCLE NETWORK NEWS" are provided. The issue also announces that MEYN MAMVRO is available via annual subscription and that photocopies of back numbers can be obtained.

A "CALENDAR OF CELEBRATIONS 1991" at Harmony Pottery lists upcoming Lunar and Solar Festivals, including Imbolc, Beltane, Lammas, Samhain, Spring Equinox, Summer Solstice, Autumn Equinox, and Winter Solstice, with specific dates and suggested items to bring for each event.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of MEYN MAMVRO are deeply rooted in Earth Mysteries, ancient history, folklore, and pagan spirituality, with a particular focus on Cornwall and its sacred sites. The magazine appears to champion an alternative perspective, valuing personal spiritual experiences and ancient wisdom over conventional historical or scientific interpretations, as seen in the Arthurian mystery and the 'Dor Dama' column. There is a strong emphasis on the connection between the landscape, spirituality, and personal well-being. The editorial stance is one of exploration and validation of these less mainstream beliefs and practices, encouraging readers to engage with these themes through personal experience, reading, and community participation, as evidenced by the exchange magazine listings and event announcements.