"Copiously illustrated.well written, thoughtful, and thought-provoking."--"Library Journal" In this authoritative account, Miranda Green unravels the truth about the Druids. Examining the archaeological evidence, Classical commentaries, and early Welsh and Irish myths, she shows that the Druids were fully integrated into Celtic society and fulfilled varied and necessary roles. The Roman writers reflected the double standards of an invading society: condemning the public sacrifice of enemies by the Druids while accepting their own practice of slaughter for sport as civilized. Yet the Classical sources can be used to help reveal the real Druids, and we learn of their multiple roles as judges, teachers, healers, magicians, philosophers, religious leaders, and fomenters of rebellion. This book traces the history of the Druids from their beginnings to their resurrection during the Renaissance. Complete with timeline and gazetteer, the book will appeal to all those--scholar, general reader, or New Age enthusiast--who are fascinated by the Druids and their world.

291 illustrations, 51 in color.