surnamed the Wily, was born in Wales in the year 511. Where he was educated is uncertain; but it appears from his own writings that he was a monk. Some writers say that he went over to Ireland; others, that he visited France and Italy. They agree however in affirming, that after his return to England he became a celebrated and most affluential preacher of the gospel. Du Pin says he founded a monastery at Venetia in Britain. Gildas is the only British author of the fifth century whose works are printed; Gilding, printed; they are therefore valuable on account of their antiquity, and as containing the only information we have concerning the times of which he wrote. His History of Britain is, however, a very flimsy performance, and his style obscure and inelegant.