Celtic Culture
Celtic Culture refers to the historical, linguistic, artistic, and social practices of the Celtic peoples, a group of tribal societies in Iron Age and Medieval Europe who spoke Celtic languages and had similar cultural traits. The influence of Celtic culture is evident in the regions commonly known as the Celtic nations: Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, the Isle of Man, and Brittany.
Historical Background
The origins of the Celts remain a subject of scholarly debate. Traditionally, the "Celtic from the West" theory posits that Celtic culture began in the Atlantic seaboard of Europe, merging aspects from indigenous cultures and incoming Indo-European influences. By the Iron Age, Celtic culture, distinguished by the La Tène style of art, had spread across a large part of Europe, leaving archaeological evidence in regions from the British Isles to the Balkans and Iberia.
Language and Literature
The Celtic languages form a branch of the Indo-European language family, with two main groups: the Goidelic (or Gaelic) languages, which include Irish, Scots Gaelic, and Manx, and the Brythonic languages, including Welsh, Breton, and Cornish. The literary tradition of the Celts began with Old Irish texts around the 8th century AD, preserving Celtic mythology and folklore.
Mythology and Religion
Celtic mythology is rich with ancient legends, often involving heroes, gods, and mystical creatures. The Celts practiced a form of polytheism, with a pantheon of deities resembling those in other Indo-European mythologies. The Druids, who acted as priests, seers, and political advisors, played a crucial role in maintaining religious and cultural traditions.
Art and Symbolism
Celtic art is renowned for its intricate designs, often featuring spirals, knotwork, and animal motifs. The La Tène style is particularly notable for its curvilinear patterns. This art form has had a lasting influence on decorative arts and remains a symbol of Celtic identity today.
Celtic Neopaganism
In contemporary times, Celtic neopaganism has emerged as a revival movement, seeking to reconstruct and reinterpret ancient Celtic religious practices. This includes modern adaptations like Celtic Wicca and Neo-Druidism, which emphasize a connection to nature and the spiritual heritage of the Celts.