Wrapped in an aura of romanticism and fantasy, the Celts continue to exercise a powerful fascination. This enchanting book looks closely at the ethnic and indigenous backgrounds of The Celtic race and the oral tradition upon which its mystique was built. Sophie Cornish carefully examines the beliefs of the Celts in relation to religion, mysticism and magic, and draws us into a - world of music, poetry and dance. This is an invaluable resource tool for anyone interested in the practical application of a fascinating magical tradition. Subjects covered include: - Celtic religions and magical beliefs the mysteries of the poet Taliesin - Celtic tree magic - Gods and goddesses of the Celtic pantheon - Working with the Celtic calendar CONTENTS INTRODUCTION PART ONE - HISTORICAL, ORAL AND MYTHOLOGICAL SOURCES Chapter 1 - Origins, Dress And Appearance Chapter 2 - Historical Observations And Comments Chapter 3 - Irish Mythological Sources Chapter 4 - The Welsh Tradition Chapter 5 - The Celtic Influence In Scotland Chapter 6 - The Continental Link Chapter 7 - The Eddic Literature Chapter 8 - Hill Figures - The Celtic Connection Chapter 9 - The Celts And The Megaliths Chapter 10 - Celtic Christianity And The Culdees PART TWO - RELIGIOUS, MAGICAL AND TRADITIONAL BELIEFS Chapter 11 - General God Concepts Chapter 12 - The Gods Of The Tuatha Dedanaans Chapter 13 - The Houses Of Don And Llyr Chapter 14 - The Arthurian Saga Chapter 15 - The Magical Significance Of The Grail Chapter 16 - Druidic And Bardic Beliefs Chapter 17 - Calendars, Trees And Magical Alphabets Chapter 18 - Taliesin The Bard Chapter 19 - Fairies, Animals And Mythical Beasts Chapter 20 - The Role Of Music And Dance In Celtic Magic PART THREE - CELTIC MAGIC FOR TODAY'S WORLD Chapter 21 - Gods And Archetypes Chapter 22 - Working With The Middle Kingdoms Chapter 23 - Tree Magic Chapter 24 - Arthurian Magic Chapter 25 - Earth Rites, Folk Music And The Green Ray Chapter 26 - Initiation Chapter 27 - Druidic Lore Chapter 28 - Ritual Prayers And Invocations Chapter 29 - Magical Quatrains Chapter 30 - The Occult Power Of Music"