Welsh-language literature has been produced continuously since the emergence of Welsh from Brythonic as a distinct language c. 5th century AD. The earliest Welsh literature (
llenyddiaeth Gymraeg) was
poetry, which was extremely intricate in form from its earliest known examples, a tradition sustained today. Poetry was followed by the first British prose literature in the 11th century (such as that contained in the
Mabinogion). Welsh language literature has repeatedly played a major part in the self-assertion of
Wales and the Welsh peoples. It continues to be held in the highest prestige, as evidenced by the massive
National Eisteddfod of Wales (
Eisteddfod Genedlaethol Cymru), the largest arts festival in Europe, which crowns its chosen literary winners in dignified ceremony.