1. Celtic Mythology

2. Origins
Celts were first Europeans to travel across Alps to emerge in recorded history.
Language part of branch of linguistics called “Indo-European”
Celtic became third literary language behind Latin and Greek inscriptions dating back to before second century (Latin dates to third century)
Six Celtic Nations: Ireland, Wales, Isle of Man, Scotland, Cornwall, Brittany

3. Ireland Oldest copies of works date to the 12th century
Strong focus on magic and the presence of faeries
Fiercely independent people
Does not exist as an independent state until 1930s

4. Wales Major source of myths in this culture is the Mabinogi
“Bed Gellert” was not recorded until the 1700s
Stories are focused more on “gods and heroes, goddesses and heroines, and of the constant struggle of good and evil” (Ellis 326).

5. Isle of Man Most myths were shared orally until the 18th century
Myths echo the themes and ideas presented in Irish and Scottish traditions
Not held with the same sense of regard as those myths from Ireland and Scotland

6. Scotland Many of the myths have Irish and Manx equivalent
They like bagpipes and kilts
Today is still a part of Great Britain, but would like independence

7. Cornwall Only one complete tale that has survived
Considered a part of England

8. Brittany During the Middle Ages, it was independent.
Always contested between France and England.
Currently a portion of France
Focused mostly on lais that were of the Arthurian tradition