Myths and Legends of the Celtic Race

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Gutenberg ID

—

Title

Myths and Legends of the Celtic Race

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

T. W. Rolleston offers a richly woven exploration of Celtic mythology and folklore, blending ancient tradition with literary insight. This editorial work illuminates the legends of Ireland, Wales, and beyond, challenging the 'Anglo-Saxon' label to reveal the enduring Anglo-Celtic heritage that shaped British history, literature, and art through a unique fusion of Germanic and Celtic elements.

Summary up to 500 words

In 'Myths and Legends of the Celtic Race,' T. W. Rolleston reconstructs the history and culture of the Celts, arguing that the true Celts were a tall, fair, and warlike aristocratic caste originating near the Danube. Rather than exterminating prehistoric inhabitants, they mingled with them, imposing their language and arts while adopting local traditions. Rolleston highlights the 'Golden Age' of Celtdom in the fifth and fourth centuries B.C., a period when the Celts successfully conquered Spain from the Carthaginians and Northern Italy from the Etruscans. These wars, often conducted in alliance with the Greeks, broke the monopoly of Phoenician trade routes and played a pivotal role in preserving European freedom against Eastern despotisms. The author notes the Celtic influence on Latin poets like Vergil and the eventual formation of the 'Anglo-Celtic' people, challenging the misleading term 'Anglo-Saxon.' The narrative shifts to Irish mythology, focusing on the Ultonian Cycle and the tragic hero Cuchulain. Rolleston recounts Cuchulain's final battle, where he is driven mad by the Children of Calatin, who create phantoms of war to torment him. Despite the pleas of his wife Emer and mother Dectera, he fights until his death at the hands of Lewy. The text illustrates the high value placed on poetry and memory in Gaelic culture through the legend of the recovery of the lost 'Tain' (Cattle Raid) saga, where the bard Sanchan Torpest's son sacrifices his life and love to retrieve the epic from Italy. Moving to Welsh legends, the book examines the Ossianic Cycle and the Arthurian sagas found in the 'Mabinogion.' Rolleston analyzes the evolution of these tales from primitive mythology to medieval romance, noting the introduction of knights and horses. He discusses the Holy Grail legend, tracing its roots from Celtic cauldrons and stones to its Christianized form, and explores the significance of the Round Table. Throughout, the author provides an erudite commentary on place names, linguistic shifts, and the specific characteristics of Celtic gods and heroes, offering a comprehensive view of the Celtic race's enduring contribution to European civilization.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Folklore
• Mythology
• British History
• Celtic Culture