Rethinking the Ancient Druids: An Archaeological Perspective

(Paperback)

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Description

Dispels misconceptions about the ancient Druids through a careful study of their material culture.

Ancient authors have painted the Druids in a negative light, defining them as a barbaric cult that perpetrated savage and blood rites in ancient Britain and Gaul. Archaeology tells a more complicated story of this enigmatic priesthood, revealing a theocracy of immense political and sacred power. This book explores the tangible footprint the Druids have left behind in sacred spaces, art, ritual equipment, images of the gods, strange burial rites, and human sacrifice. In this careful study of Druid material culture, Miranda Aldhouse-Green uncovers compelling new findings about ancient religious beliefs and practices.

Author Bio

Miranda Aldhouse-Green is Emeritus Professor of Archaeology at Cardiff University; author of several books and papers on ancient European religion, and holder of two Book of the Year awards from national US archaeological societies.