In 881, three years following Rhodri’s demise at the hands of the English, his son Anarawd confronted the Mercians at Conwy.
In 878, Rhodri Mawr was killed by the English alongside his son Gwriad. The Annales Cambriae records their deaths at the hands of “the Saxons”, though it does not specify the exact location. Documented: Annales Cambriae, death entry labelled 877 in the linked translation; dated 878 by J. E. Lloyd Historian J. E. Lloyd attributes Rhodri’s death to the Mercians. Documented: J. E. Lloyd, Dictionary of Welsh Biography, “Anarawd ap Rhodri”
What Transpired During the Battle of Conwy?
The year 881 marked a significant defeat for the Mercians at the banks of the River Conwy. J. E. Lloyd identifies Anarawd, Rhodri’s son and successor as ruler of Gwynedd, as the victor of this critical encounter. Documented: J. E. Lloyd, Dictionary of Welsh Biography, “Anarawd ap Rhodri”
The Annales Cambriae briefly records this pivotal moment:
The battle of Conwy. Vengeance for Rhodri at God’s hand.
Documented: Annales Cambriae, Conwy entry labelled 880 in the linked translation; battle dated 881 by J. E. Lloyd
This concise entry does not name the commanders or specify the opposing forces. it clearly connects the battle to the theme of vengeance for Rhodri.
Which Historical Sources Provide Insight into This Event?
- Annales Cambriae, English translation, Internet Medieval Sourcebook, Fordham University. The pertinent entries are labelled 877 and 880 in this translation.
- J. E. Lloyd, “Anarawd ap Rhodri”, Dictionary of Welsh Biography. This source offers dates of 878 and 881, along with insights into Mercian involvement and Anarawd’s victory.
It is probable that the Mercian army was led by Æthelred, Lord of the Mercians. A subsequent Welsh genealogical account refers to the commander as “Edryd Long-Hair”, often associated with Æthelred. Inferred
What Were the Aftermath and Implications of the Battle?
Anarawd’s victory at Conwy did not bring an end to his dealings with external powers. In his Life of King Alfred, written in 893, Asser recounts how Anarawd and an unnamed brother ended their alliance with the Northumbrians to seek support from Alfred. Asser notes that their former partnership with the Northumbrians had brought Anarawd “no good but harm”. Documented: Asser, Life of King Alfred, chapter 80
Alfred welcomed Anarawd with honour, providing gifts and acting as his sponsor during his confirmation. According to Asser, Anarawd then pledged loyalty to Alfred along with all his people, under terms similar to those established by Æthelred and the Mercians. Documented: Asser, Life of King Alfred, chapter 80
Where Can You Access Additional Resources on This Topic?
- Annales Cambriae (Annals of Wales), English translation, which includes entries documenting the deaths of Rhodri and Gwriad, as well as the battle of Conwy, labelled as 877 and 880 in this version, differing from the 878 and 881 dates referenced here.
- Asser, Life of King Alfred, translated by Albert S. Cook, chapter 80, detailing Anarawd’s relationship with the Northumbrians and his subsequent allegiance to Alfred.
- J. E. Lloyd, “Anarawd ap Rhodri”, Dictionary of Welsh Biography, for information on Anarawd’s succession, his victory at Conwy, and relationships with neighbouring powers.
- Thomas Jones Pierce, “Rhodri Mawr”, Dictionary of Welsh Biography, offering an overview of Rhodri’s reign and dynasty, with his death dated to 877.
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