Celtic Mythology

1. Celtic Mythology

2. Origins • Celts were first Europeans to travel across Alps to emerge in recorded history. • Language part of branch of linguistics called “Indo-European” • Celtic became third literary language behind Latin and Greek inscriptions dating back to before second century (Latin dates to third century) Six Celtic Nations: Ireland, Wales, Isle of Man, Scotland, Cornwall, Brittany

3. Ireland • Oldest copies of works date to the 12th century • Strong focus on magic and the presence of faeries • Fiercely independent people • Does not exist as an independent state until 1930s

4. Wales • Major source of myths in this culture is the Mabinogi • “Bed Gellert” was not recorded until the 1700s • Stories are focused more on “gods and heroes, goddesses and heroines, and of the constant struggle of good and evil” (Ellis 326).

5. Isle of Man • Most myths were shared orally until the 18th century • Myths echo the themes and ideas presented in Irish and Scottish traditions • Not held with the same sense of regard as those myths from Ireland and Scotland

6. Scotland • Many of the myths have Irish and Manx equivalent • They like bagpipes and kilts • Today is still a part of Great Britain, but would like independence

7. Cornwall • Only one complete tale that has survived • Considered a part of England

8. Brittany • During the Middle Ages, it was independent. • Always contested between France and England. • Currently a portion of France • Focused mostly on lais that were of the Arthurian tradition