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? Were the Druids barbaric head-hunters involved in human sacrifice? Or were they wise and benevolent healers who could interpret omens and predict the future? In this rich and fascinating account, lavishly supported by beautiful illustrations, 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 as judges, teachers, healers, magicians, philosophers, religious leaders and fomenters of rebellion. Including sections on the Classical texts and first-hand accounts of ancient Druids, archaeological evidence, Druidical sacrifice, sanctuaries, shrines, and witches, this book traces the history of the Druids from ancient times to the present day. Modern Druidism and its links with Stonehenge and Avebury receive full coverage and a directory of modern Druidical societies reveals a worldwide phenomenon.
Special features cover the celebrity Druids, ranging from Winston Churchill, to William Blake, to William Wordsworth. Complete with timeline and a gazeteer, this meticulously researched book should appeal to scholars, New Age enthusiasts and all those who are fascinated by the Druids and their world.
- ISBN10 050005083X
- ISBN13 9780500050835
- Publish Date 6 May 1997
- Publish Status Active
- Publish Country GB
- Imprint Thames & Hudson Ltd
- Format Hardcover
- Pages 192
- Language English