Dictionary of Celtic Mythology

by Peter Berresford Ellis

Book Overview

The Celts were one of the great founding civilizations of Europe and the first North European people to emerge into recorded history, producing a vibrant labyrinth of mythological tales and sagas that have influenced the literary traditions of Europe and the world.
The first A-Z reference of its kind, Dictionary of Celtic Mythology is fascinating and accessible guide to the gods and goddesses, the heroes and heroines, the magical weapons, fabulous...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0195089618
• ISBN13: 9780195089615
• Release Date: June 1994
• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Length: 240 Pages
• Weight: 0.45 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.1" x 8.8"

Customer Reviews

Good Resource

I have found this to be a very useful little book. Entries include not only ones of legendary interest, but of Celtic interest in general-entries for ancient Celtic kingdoms (e.g. Galatia) and cultural or spiritual attributes (e.g. Fasting). It is one of those concise, at-a-glance, pull-it-out-of-your-pocket type books that can come in handy when reading Irish folktales, or even if you are just bored and feel like flipping through a book. It focuses primarily on the mythology of Eire and Cymry, but also gives Scottish, Pictish, Cornish, Manx, Breton, Gaulish, Celt-Iberian, and Galatian topics some attention, including a brief list of major Gaulish gods and major Celtic holidays, and a substantial biblography. Again, a very useful book, highly recommended for anyone finding Celtic folklore, or the Celts in general interesting.

Highly recommended

This is a very useful reference book for anyone studying Celtic mythology. It is comprehensive and its readability is enhanced by the clear and uncluttered design. Entries vary from names ("Manannan Mac Lir") to topics ("Ard Ri"), and provide succinct yet clear descriptions and histories. However, it is clear that choices have been made where space was limited or excessive material would detract from the readability. This is most notable in cases where the book says, "There are no fewer than seven persons of this name in Celtic mythology. However, the most notable is ...". Yet despite this minor shortcoming, this is one of the books I reach for first when I need to look up the details of some obscure Irish hero or monster.All in all, this is an excellent book for getting a basic idea before embarking on a more detailed investigation.