Exploring The World Of The Druids Download Free (EPUB, PDF)
A book that is difficult to classify - a popular introduction to the history of Druidism whose scope necessitates a brief study, yet it is thoroughly up-to-date incorporating new ideas and research. Ten chapters look at the archaeology of the druids, celtic practices, the classical literature, sacrifices, prophecy, female druids in celtic society, sacred places and priests, druids in Irish mythology, the 18th and 19th century revivals, and modern beliefs. The bibliography is accompanied by a directory of modern druid organizations.
Paperback: 192 pages
Publisher: Thames and Hudson (December 31, 1997)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 050005083X
ISBN-13: 978-0500050835
Product Dimensions: 9.9 x 7.7 x 0.9 inches
Shipping Weight: 2 pounds
Average Customer Review: 3.9 out of 5 stars See all reviews (18 customer reviews)
Best Sellers Rank: #805,091 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #76 in Books > Religion & Spirituality > New Age & Spirituality > Druidism #214 in Books > Religion & Spirituality > New Age & Spirituality > Celtic #1776 in Books > History > Historical Study & Educational Resources > Archaeology
Green's World of the Druids looks at various sources of information about the ancient Druids, including archeology, history, folklore, and classical sources. She relays more recent discoveries, explains the origins of the Druids, their role in society, religion, prophesy and a sacrafice. And, Green takes a look at Druids in the modern day.This is a reasonably good introductory book on the Druids. It does tend to brush over some areas without as much detail as some other books in an effort to appear "credible," thus fresh ideas are somewhat lacking. For those looking for more of an introduction to Druid history, this more abridged (scaled down) work is a bit easier than many other texts, but it may not serve as well for those with a more solid grasp of Druidry and Celtic studies. I personally find much of Miranda Green's work simply reiterates what is already commonly written by other authors, and I don't get much new out of her work, which is a shame given her enjoyable writing style.Discussion & analysis of Celtic mythology is relatively light, especially that from Non-Irish sources, but her accounts and interpretation are considered standard by many. Her account on women in Celtic Society, and as female Seers and Druidesses, (she gives them an entire chapter) is somewhat refreshing.My only other complaint would be in her description of modern-day Druids all being Neo-Druids, and her promotion of a "shared perception" between Druids and Wiccans. While they are quoted as being "separate and distinct," the focus on Wiccan beliefs, rituals and coven membership seemed unnecessary in a more scholary book.
Illustration-heavy, The World of the Druids is a partial introduction to the Celtic Druids. Green reviews the various sources of information about the Druids (classical texts, archaeological evidence, and Welsh and Irish myths). Relying heavily on the near-300 illustrations that make up the bulk of the text, Green analyzes the little we do know about Druids: their political and religious roles, ancient Celtic religious practices, and the use of sacred space. Some of the text is dubious extrapolations, but Green is generally willing to admit just how little we do know. The tail end of the book looks at the Druidic revival, including renewed interest in the Druids, early modern texts on Druids, the erroneous but commonplace connections between Stonehenge and Druids, and historic and current new Druidic religions and movements, including aspects of Neopaganism. A little repetitive, lacking in-depth analysis and commentary, but with copious illustrations. This is a decent introduction to the subject and interesting to look through, but not particularly useful. Borrow it, don't buy it.Beyond doubt, the illustrations are the most interesting and useful part of this text. There are nearly 300 of them, all with explanatory captions; many are also mentioned in the body of the text itself. They cover a variety of topics, findings, landmarks, and archaeological digs. Texts on Celtic history and religion generally lack illustrations or, if they have some, have few, making this a useful resource. Unfortunately, some of the images are drawn reproductions (rather than photographs) and few are in color, somewhat decreasing their value or usefulness. Furthermore, Green fails to discuss any of the illustrations, or indeed any one aspect of the text, in much depth.
Exploring the World of the Druids Exploring the World of Chemistry: From Ancient Metals to High-Speed Computers (Exploring Series) (Exploring (New Leaf Press)) Drawing Down the Moon : Witches, Druids, Goddess-Worshippers, and Other Pagans in America Today Cathedral of the Black Madonna: The Druids and the Mysteries of Chartres Being a Pagan: Druids, Wiccans, and Witches Today Demons and Druids (Daniel X) Exploring the World of Biology: From Mushrooms to Complex Life Forms (Exploring Series) Start Exploring: Masterpieces: A Fact-Filled Coloring Book (Start Exploring (Coloring Books)) Exploring: Microsoft Office 2013, Plus (Exploring for Office 2013) Exploring: Microsoft Excel 2013, Comprehensive (Exploring for Office 2013) Exploring: Microsoft PowerPoint 2013, Comprehensive (Exploring for Office 2013) Cave Exploring: The Definitive Guide to Caving Technique, Safety, Gear, and Trip Leadership (Falcon Guides Cave Exploring) Exploring Microsoft Office Excel 2016 Comprehensive (Exploring for Office 2016 Series) Exploring Microsoft Office Access 2016 Comprehensive (Exploring for Office 2016 Series) Exploring Microsoft Word 2016 Comprehensive (Exploring for Office 2016 Series) Exploring Microsoft SharePoint for Office 2013, Brief (Exploring for Office 2013) Exploring Microsoft Office 2013, Volume 1 (Exploring for Office 2013) Crude Reality: Petroleum in World History (Exploring World History) Exploring Our World, Student Edition (THE WORLD & ITS PEOPLE EASTERN) Russia: A Crossroads Between History and Nature (Exploring Countries of the World)
