With 223 illustrations.
First published in the United States of America in 1994 by Thames and Hudson. First paperback edition 1998.
Our established impressions of early Celtic Ireland have come down to us through the great Irish myths and sagas, yet how do these images compare with archaeological evidence? The author seeks to present a comprehensive and lucid account of the Irish Iron Age. He discusses advances that took place in travel and transport; the common people; the local metalsmiths; and the religious beliefs exemplified by standing stones and offerings in lakes and rivers. New material is examined on Ireland's contact with the Roman world and the final chapter reviews whether La Tène culture was spread to Ireland through invasion or diffusion
Author(s): Barry Raftery
Edition: Reprint
Publisher: Thames and Hudson
Year: 1998
Language: English
Pages: 240
City: New York
Preface 7
1. Introduction 9
2. From Bronzesmith to Blacksmith 17
3. Hillforts 38
4. King and Tribe 64
5. The Road to God Knows Where 98
6. The Invisible People 112
7. Technology and Art 147
8. Cult, Ritual and Death 178
9. Beyond the Empire 200
10. Celts, Culture and Colonization 220
Appendix: Radiocarbon Dates Used in the Text 229
Notes to the Text 231
Further Reading 231
Sources of Illustrations 235
Index 235
