Celtic Myths and Legends

by Michael Foss

In Celtic lands, the ancient bards told stories that were passed down from generation to generation over hundreds of years. This anthology respects the spirit of the age in which the stories were first told, as well as that unique Celtic trait of storytelling that emphasizes character, humanity, and humor over any deep mythological meaning. The people of these myths celebrate the excitement and infinite variety of the feasting and wooing, the hunting and hurling, the eating and drinking, the lust of battle, the bold and bravery of fights, and the honorable deaths. Even the "gods" are more super-human than truly deified. Told with simplicity, speed, humor, and an eye for detail, the stories are also presented with a refreshing lack of sentimentality. Includes the story of Pwyll and Rhiannon, the hero deeds of Cuchulain, the sagas of Manawydan and Finn Mac Cool, and a selection of Scots/Irish fables.

256 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1995

Reviews

[Steve Brooker · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not an easy read. I think I would have benefitted from first reading versions of the tales in straight forward language, so I could have a clearer, more entertaining idea of what was going on.

[Kaitlyn · Rating 2 out of 5]

Being a huge fan of books about or inspired by mythology, Greek, Roman, Egyptian, Norse, I desperately wanted to read this book. I am also Welsh, so wanted to learn about my own native Mythology.
I really struggled through the start of this book. I felt like I had names of characters thrown at me, with little to no explanation about who they were. It was very confusing, and I struggled to remember much about the start of the book.
I found the later stores better explained, and they saved me from putting the book down. Finn Mac Cool's story was especially good, as it had several chapters dedicated to it, which allowed the story and characters to be explored, rather than rushed.
Splitting the book by themes rather than origin was interesting, but worked well. I appreciate that the author mentioned which of the Celtic nations (Wales, Scotland, Ireland) each myth came from, rather than just lumping them all together.

[Maya · Rating 3 out of 5]

For my full review please see my Website: Celtic Myths and Legends by Michael Foss