Exploring the world of the DruidsUpplaga 2

The white-clad Druid wielding a golden sickle and conducting secret ceremonies in remote forest glades is a familiar figure in art and literature. But just how accurate is this view when compared with actual evidence from the past? In this authoritative account, Miranda Green unravels the truth about the Druids. Examining the archaeological evidence, Classical commentaries, and early Welsh and Irish myths, she shows that the Druids were fully integrated into Celtic society, fulfilling varied and necessary roles both secular and religious. Roman writers are seen to reflect the double standards of an invading society, condemning as barbaric the public sacrifice of enemies by the Druids while accepting as civilized their own sacrifice of Christians to the lions. Yet the Classical sources can be used to reveal the real Druids. We learn of their multiple roles as judges, teachers, healers, magicians, philosophers, religious leaders, and fomenters of rebellion. With sections on the Classical texts, archaeological evidence, Druidical sacrifice, and female Druids to name a few, this book traces the history of the Druids from their beginnings in the midst of Celtic times up to their resurrection during the Renaissance period, which has so heavily influenced the Druids of today. Modern Druidism and its links with Stonehenge and Avebury receive full coverage. A directory of Druidical societies reveals that this is now a worldwide phenomenon with groups operating from Australia to America. Special features throughout the book range from Lindow Man--was he the victim of Druidical sacrifice?--to William Wordsworth the Druid. Complete with timeline and gazetteer, this imaginatively illustrated book will appeal to all those--student, traveler, or spiritual seeker--who are fascinated by the Druids and their world.