Beyond Tolkien’s elves
When we think of elves, many of us picture the tall, noble beings from J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth. However, delve into Welsh folklore, and you’ll discover the Ellyllon—a different kind of elf altogether. These mischievous fairy folk are deeply embedded in Wales’ rich tapestry of myths and legends.
Who are the Ellyllon?
The Ellyllon (singular: Ellyll) are small, goblin-like creatures known for their playful and sometimes tricky nature. Dwelling in misty hollows and secluded valleys, they are considered a subset of the Tylwyth Teg, the “fair family” of Welsh legend. Unlike their more benevolent counterparts, the Ellyllon can be unpredictable, offering help one moment and causing mischief the next.
A tale from Victorian Cardiff
One captivating story from Victorian Cardiff tells of an Ellyll who assisted a struggling farmer. This tale not only highlights the Ellyllon’s capricious nature but also reflects the deep connection between these fairy folk and the human world. Such narratives offer a glimpse into the complex relationships and cultural significance of the Ellyllon in Welsh society.
Discover more with Mark Rees
For those eager to delve deeper into these enchanting tales, journalist and author Mark Rees explores the mysteries of the Ellyllon in his Ghosts and Folklore of Wales podcast. In episode 43, titled “Nasty Little Elves: The Secret Origin of the Ellyllon,” Mark combines scholarly insight with engaging storytelling to bring these legends to life.
EP43 Nasty Little Elves: The secret origin of the Ellyllon:
Missed the previous episode?
If you missed the last episode, fear not – listen here! Episode 42, “The Ghost Ship Mystery,” delves into eerie tales of invisible boats docking at harbours and phantom funerals in graveyards, unravelling the meanings behind these spectral occurrences.
Explore the entire series
For a comprehensive list of podcast episodes, from the Mari Lwyd to the Mabinogion, and to subscribe, visit the Ghosts and Folklore of Wales podcast page.
Dive deeper into Welsh folklore
If this exploration of the Ellyllon has piqued your interest, there’s a wealth of eerie tales awaiting you. Explore more in Mark Rees’s collection of books, such as The A-Z of Curious Wales, published in 2019 by The History Press. Mark’s books are available now from all good bookshops and online.