Subject
Celts -- Folklore Books
Best books
W. Y. (Walter Yeeling) Evans-Wentz
The Fairy-Faith in Celtic Countries
"The Fairy-Faith in Celtic Countries" by W. Y. Evans-Wentz is a scholarly exploration focused on Celtic folklore and mythology, written in the early 20th century. This work investigates the persistent belief in fairies across Celtic nations, including Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, and Brittany, examining both contemporary beliefs and historical contexts. The author delves into the enduring cultural significance of fairies, presenting firsthand accounts from various witnesses, and explores how these beliefs interface with broader themes of spirituality and human experience. The opening portion introduces the foundational ideas behind the study, emphasizing the author's extensive research conducted among Celtic peoples across different regions. The text reflects on the interplay between natural environments and the Celtic belief in fairies, proposing that locations rich in myth and legend, like Tara in Ireland and Carnac in Brittany, act as cultural epicenters for these beliefs. Evans-Wentz outlines his anthropological and psychological methodologies for gathering testimony, asserting that both the educated and the uneducated hold these beliefs, encouraging readers to reconsider their notions of superstition versus reality within the rich tapestry of Celtic culture.
Charles Squire
The Mythology of the British Islands An Introduction to Celtic Myth, Legend, Poetry, and Romance
"The Mythology of the British Islands" by Charles Squire is an introduction to Celtic myth, legend, poetry, and romance written in the early 20th century. The book aims to provide English readers with an accessible understanding of the rich mythical and literary heritage of the Gaelic and British Celts, illuminating key figures and stories that have shaped this ancient mythology. It poses Celtic mythology as an essential counterpart to other well-known mythologies, illuminating how these tales have intertwined with English literary heritage. The opening of the book discusses the significance of Celtic mythology and its impact on English literature by establishing the profound value of early legendary and poetic records. Squire articulates the transition of literary inspiration from Graeco-Roman sources to Celtic roots, suggesting a revival of interest in indigenous mythological traditions. He introduces the notion that Celtic mythology, while less explored in the literary canon, offers a fresh and native stream of inspiration for understanding the cultural and poetic landscape of the British Isles. This sets the stage for a detailed exploration of the mythical landscape and its characters that will follow in subsequent chapters.
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Celtic Folk and Fairy Tales
"Celtic Folk and Fairy Tales" by Joseph Jacobs is a collection of folk tales and fairy stories, likely written in the late 19th century. This anthology draws upon the rich tradition of Celtic mythology and folklore, featuring tales from Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. Each story embodies a unique charm, weaving together elements of adventure, romance, and the supernatural, showcasing the rich tapestry of Celtic imagination. The opening of the collection presents a glimpse into the thoughtful selection process by Jacobs, who aims to present stories representative of the Celtic tradition. He expresses his intention to include humor and romance while cautioning against the over-familiar tropes commonly found in fairy tales. The volume begins with "Connla and the Fairy Maiden," a tale about Connla, son of a king, who encounters a mysterious fairy maiden and is torn between the mundane world and the enchanting realm she offers. This sets the stage for a series of engaging tales filled with magic, bravery, and the eternal struggle between different worlds.
Thomas Bulfinch
The Age of Chivalry
"The Age of Chivalry" by Thomas Bulfinch is a historical account that was likely written in the late 19th century. The work examines the legendary and historical figures of the medieval era, specifically focusing on the myths and stories surrounding King Arthur, his knights, and the concept of chivalry. It serves as a compilation of tales that illuminate the ideals of bravery, loyalty, and honor that characterized the knightly tradition, showcasing figures like Arthur and his companions alongside commentary on the evolution of these legends. The opening of "The Age of Chivalry" sets the stage by delving into the context of the medieval period, detailing the decline of Roman rule and the rise of chivalric ideals. It introduces key themes such as the nature of knighthood and the societal structure of the time, including the training of knights and the importance of chivalry as a moral code. The text begins with a description of the turbulent environment post-Rome and frames the ideals of chivalry as a response to the lawlessness of the age, ultimately leading to the legendary tales of King Arthur. The discussion of significant characters like Merlin, and the portrayal of Arthur as he rises to power, establishes a foundation for the exploration of stories that blend history and myth throughout the book.
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Celtic Fairy Tales
"Celtic Fairy Tales" by Joseph Jacobs is a collection of folk tales that showcases the rich storytelling tradition of the Celtic cultures, likely compiled in the late 19th century. The tales feature various characters, often connected to themes of magic, love, and adventure, while drawing from the folklore of Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. The book aims to present tales that are characteristic of Celtic culture, distinguished from their English counterparts. The opening of the collection begins with a preface where Jacobs outlines his approach to selecting and editing these tales drawn from oral traditions. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining the authenticity of Celtic narratives while infusing them with an accessibility that appeals to a younger audience. Jacobs introduces the first story, "Connla and the Fairy Maiden," in which a young prince named Connla encounters a mystical fairy maiden who beckons him to leave his earthly life for the enchanting realms of the fae. As Connla struggles between his love for the fairy and his obligations to his family, the tension between the two worlds is beautifully illustrated. This captivating blend of romance and magic hints at the deeper themes explored throughout the collection.
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More Celtic Fairy Tales
"More Celtic Fairy Tales" by Joseph Jacobs is a collection of folklore stories written in the late 19th century. This anthology serves as a continuation of Jacobs' efforts to preserve Celtic cultural narratives, particularly emphasizing fairy tales from the British Isles, including tales from both Ireland and Scotland. The collection features renowned stories such as "The Fate of the Children of Lir," which explores themes of transformation and perseverance through the trials faced by its characters. At the start of the collection, the opening tale introduces readers to the tragic and enchanting story of "The Fate of the Children of Lir." It recounts the significance of familial bonds and the repercussions of jealousy as Lir's children are transformed into swans due to their stepmother's dark magic. As they navigate their new existence, the children retain their voices, lamenting their fate while longing for freedom. This opening portion sets a tone steeped in rich mythology and emotional resonance, suggesting that the collection will offer a blend of enchanting narratives filled with moral undertones and cultural significance.
William Sharp
The Laughter of Peterkin: A retelling of old tales of the Celtic Wonderworld
"The Laughter of Peterkin: A retelling of old tales of the Celtic Wonderworld" by Fiona MacLeod is a collection of children's stories likely written in the late 19th century. This book engages with themes rooted in Celtic mythology, exploring the marvelous adventures and whimsical life of a young boy named Peterkin, who embodies the essence of childhood wonder and delight. His experiences intermingle with ancient tales, notably the poignant stories of the Children of Lir. At the start of this enchanting tale, we are introduced to Peterkin, a child curious about the moonlight and the magic it brings. The opening scene captures his awakening to a night filled with wonder—he encounters tiny, ethereal beings amidst the branches of a poplar tree, sparking joy and laughter within him. This whimsical atmosphere continues as Peterkin navigates his garden with childlike innocence, longing for the hidden fairy folk and the adventures they might bring. He is comforted by stories from Ian Mor, who tells him of the Children of Lir, introducing themes of transformation, love, and loss while planting seeds of imagination in Peterkin's heart. The beginning of the book sets a tone that is both light-hearted and profound, inviting readers into a world where laughter and longing coexist beautifully.
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