Wygar
Arthur's famed hauberk in Layamon's "Brut", worn during his battles against the Saxons.
Introduction#
Wygar is the name given to Arthur’s hauberk, or armored tunic, in Layamon’s “Brut”. Unlike Arthur’s more famous weapons, such as Excalibur and Ron, Wygar is a piece of defensive equipment. Its naming reflects the importance attached to the king’s armor in early Arthurian tradition.
Arthur’s Hauberk#
According to Layamon, Arthur wore Wygar during his campaign against the Saxons, including the Battle of Bath.
The armor is described as a remarkable work of craftsmanship, worthy of Britain’s greatest king. Like several of Arthur’s possessions, it possessed an origin that blurred the boundary between the mortal world and the realm of marvels.
The Maker of Wygar#
Layamon offers two possible origins for the hauberk.
One tradition claims that it was fashioned by a wizard. Another attributes its creation to an elvish smith named Witege.
If the latter identification is correct, Witege may be connected with the Germanic hero Widia (Weland’s son), a legendary smith and warrior who appears in Anglo-Saxon and continental traditions.
This association would place Wygar among the many Arthurian objects linked to supernatural craftsmanship.
Wygar and Arthur’s Other Arms#
Several of Arthur’s weapons and possessions bear personal names. Among the most famous are:
– Excalibur, Arthur’s sword
– Pridwen, Arthur’s shield or ship depending on the tradition
– Ron, Arthur’s spear
– Carnwennan, Arthur’s dagger
– Wygar, Arthur’s hauberk
Together, these named objects emphasize Arthur’s status as a legendary ruler whose equipment was as renowned as his deeds.
Symbolism and Significance#
Unlike Arthur’s offensive weapons, Wygar represents protection rather than conquest.
Its supernatural origins and personal name place it among the treasured possessions that distinguish Arthur from ordinary kings. The hauberk symbolizes both royal authority and the divine or magical protection often associated with Arthur in medieval tradition.
Sources#
Brut | Layamon, late 12th century to mid-13th century
