Customer Reviews

Celtic Myths and Legends (Myths of the World)

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This book reads like a text book, in which other sources are constantly quoted. The information appears well researched, but reading through it can be tedious.

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.

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.

Do you want to know the origins of the ancient Celtic gods and goddesses - the deities of the British race? If so then this is the book you need.

I adore this old book. It was first published in 1905, according to my old version. I have had my own green-backed copy for decades. It was one of the most influential books on my developing psyche and led me to later write both 'The Torch and the Spear' and 'The New Pagan Handbook'. The information in its lovely old pages (over 400) forms an enormous reference for any genuine seeker who wants to access data about the heathen mythology of the British Isles. This is far removed from the typical, fluffy bunny spell-book tripe that we frequently face in New Age shops, which are comically supposed to be about myth, paganism or the occult. It just oozes sincerity and is a detailed study of the native deities and traditional mindset of our earlier pre-Christian ancestors. I have taken the mythological lessons within Squire's book and decoded them in my own works so that his superb efforts will not be lost. This wonderful work is a great stepping stone for anyone who wishes to shake off the thrall of monotheistic mind control and indoctrination and enter the gates to understanding their Pagan birthright. I was lucky enough to discover this work many years ago - it is a treasure.

As the Founder of the Pagan Anti - Defamation Network (PAN) I would heartily recommend this grand investigation into authentic Pagan folklore and tradition to anyone.

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.

I have read many texts regarding Greek/Roman mythology, but until now have not spent any time on mythology of other areas. This book is NOT one to read as an intro to Celtic mythology. Even references to the well-known character of King Arthur sound foreign to those who only know the most famous of the fairy-tale stories.

I found two highly related problems with reading this book. The first is the assumption by the author that you have already had an introduction to a history of the Isles. Second is the difficulty in reading the names of characters. To someone who is not familiar with pronouncing names with multiple consonants and many W's, V's, and Y's in them, it takes away from the enjoyment and educational value of the book.

However, in all fairness, if you do not have these weeknesses (as I do), then you will probably find this book very enlightening. Squire seems to have really researched the topic and speculates that various gods/heros are 'reincarnated' over the ages to fit the ideals of the current society.