Uncover the origins of Lughnasa (a.k.a. Lughnasadh), a summer harvest festival during which “first fruits” are gathered, mountains are climbed, and races are run, all in honor of the Celtic sun-god Lugh and his foster-mother, Tailtiu.
Category Archives: History
What Is a Banshee? The Mythic Origins of Ireland’s Most Infamous Shrieking Spirit
A brief biography of Irish folklore’s most frightening fay, the banshee. Learn why this vociferous, vatic vocalist haunts the households of those about to perish.
The 50 Best Books About Druidism and Druidic Practices
Whether you’re an aspiring druid or an active member of a druidic organization, these books on modern druidism will help you along the “green path”
The 10 Best Books About Druids
Want to learn about the history of the druids? This is a top 10 list of the best non-fiction books about druids, the intellectual elites of the ancient Celtic world
Was Merlin Inspired by Irish Mythology? The Search for the Original Celtic “Wild Man”
“Man flees to the forest” is a common motif in Celtic storytelling traditions. But which “Wild Man” came first: the Welsh Myrddin Wyllt, the Scottish Lailoken, the Irish Suibhne Geilt, or someone else?
Was Merlin a Druid?
He’s the world’s most famous wizard, but was the Merlin of Arthurian Legend based on a historical Celtic druid?
Was Merlin a Real Person? The Disputed Origins of the World’s Most Famous ‘Wizard’
Separate fact from Arthruian Legend as we explore the historical evidence for Merlin, King Arthur’s personal sorcerer.
What’s the Difference Between a Bard, a Vate, and a Druid?
The ancient Celts divided their intellectual elites into three categories: druids, bards, and vates. Learn about their differences (and similarities) as recorded by Greek and Roman historians.
The Search for the Celtic Themyscira: Was There Really an Island of Celtic Warrior Women?
Classical writers regale us with eyebrow-raising tales of wild, island-bound Celtic women. But are any of them true?
Were There Female Druids?
Historical evidence suggests druidesses not only existed but were just as if not more powerful than their male counterparts.