Celtic Mythology: The Nature and Influence of Celtic Myth from Druidism to Arthurian Legend - Softcover

The mythology of the Celts can justly be claimed as one of the jewels of the European cultural heritage. It is a supreme literary achievement, particularly in the Irish stories with their abundance of incident and lively characterisation.

There is comedy in the myths, as well as profound tragic vision and moments of penetrating psychological insight. But beyond this, 'Celtic Mythology' offers us a window on pagan Celtic society, with its love of spectacle, its strict marital code, and love of the good things of life.

In this lively account of the world of Celtic myth, Ward Rutherford shows how deeply the myths have become embedded in Western Consciousness – from the Celtic vision of the Other World, with its dim forests and howling bare-fanged creatures, to the paradise of Tir nan 'Og, the Land of Youth, where birds sing, and streams flow peacefully by in endless summer afternoons. Finally, the author traces the Celtic influence in the Arthurian cycle and assesses its impact on the English literary tradition.

"This is a fascinating compilation of Celtic myths and aspects of Celtic life both secular and religious"
NEW HUMANITY