The Dream of Macsen Wledig Summary

Macsen, emperor of Rome, dreams that he sails to a country, where he comes to a hall. Inside the hall, he sees two young men playing gwyddbwyll, while an old king sits near them carving. Beside the king sits a woman, who embraces Macsen.

Macsen wakes filled with longing for the dream-woman. He no longer takes any pleasure in eating or drinking. His subjects grow concerned, and he tells them his dream. They suggest that Macsen should send messengers to find her. Thirteen messengers set out. When Macsen recognises the start of his dream-journey, he sends the messengers on. They take ship and sail to Britain. They find the castle Macsen described. When they find the maiden, Elen, they hail her as Empress.

Elen says Macsen must come to claim her. Macsen conquers the island...