The Leek - Emblem of Wales
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A look at links between the humble leek and the history of Wales.
Why is the leek the national emblem of Wales? Eddie Butler explores various legends including mention of the leek in Shakespeare's Henry V, the custom in Tudor times of the giving of leeks on St David's Day, links to the Battle of Crecy in 1346 and myths on battles fought by St David himself where it is alleged that he instructed his soldiers to wear leeks in their hats.
From:
Welsh Icons
First broadcast
:
1 March 2011
Teachers' notes
Age Group : 9-11,11-14
Subject : History
Topic : Early Wales and Britain, Medieval Wales
Keywords : Education for Sustainable Development and Global Citizenship, English, Welsh myths, national identity
Notes : History use; Discuss - where do emblems come from? Study St David's life and the battle of Crecy. What influenced the Welsh flag? Use in English; study of Welsh myths. ESDGC use; study of national identity.
