Celtic Myths and Legends

One of the most comprehensive studies of Celtic mythology, legend, and poetry ever written. Includes backgrounds of Celts, ancient Britons, and druids, along with entertaining tales of major figures in Celtic lore, such as Cuchulain. Blodeuwedd, Branwen and Fenn. A beautiful edition. Excellent reference guide and a pleasure to read with Celtic music playing in the background.

This is an excellently produced reprint of Charles Squire's classic turn-of-the-century volume of Irish myth and legend. It is a trim, quality volume with an emerald green cover embossed in gold. The dust jacket is also beautifully done with reproductions from the full-color plates inside the volume. This is a book that will last. There is also a new introduction by Owen Perkins.These are myths that predate those of the Greeks, with power and meaning every bit as great. These are the foundation myths of the Celts of old Briton. They are all here: the tales of the Tuatha de Danann and the Fomors, of Cuchulainn, of Chonchobar, of Conn and Cormac, of Finn mac Coul and the Fenians, and of Arthur himself. Indeed, Squire was one of the first scholars to free Arthur and his knights from the clutches of the Normans and their thieving decedents.The book itself is divided into three parts: 1) an introductory section on the source works, the history of the ancient Britons, and the religion of the same, 2) the Gaelic Gods and their stories, and 3) the British Gods and their stories. There is also section on survivals of ancient Celtic paganism into "modern times" (i.e. the early 20th century.) A bibliography of source works is included, as well as a pronunciation guide, and a full index. There is a four-page section of full-color plates of marvelous heroic paintings.I've owned and read several newer accounts of these myths (both new-age and scholarly) but this is the one I get down to read by the fire when my soul needs renewal.

This book is great for the beginning reader of celtic mythology. Although it is fairly heavy reading it covers many points (not always in great depth) that can then be followed up in other books. A very useful purchase that is opened at least once a week in my household for reference reasons.

Chapters 1 - 4 can be entirely skipped as they are a little slow and dry. Squire discusses the contrasts of the indigenous peoples, the Iberians, and the "new comers", the Milesians, before you have a clue who the Milesians are. If you decide to read the first four chapters, wait until after Chapter 15. But don't let that deter you from the book. Chapters 5 through 15 are well worth the purchase in and of themselves. The stories are well told and Squire fairly presents the discussion as to the nature of the existing historical ruins that so enamored William Blake. I would like to have seen the mythology from Britain separated out into its own full treatment as the mythology of Ireland is plenty to take all at once. However, no one says you have to read the whole book in one sitting.