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The Celtic World

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About this listen

Following the surge of interest and pride in Celtic identity since the 19th century, much of what we thought we knew about the Celts has been radically transformed. From the warriors who nearly defeated Julius Caesar to druids who, contrary to popular opinion, definitely did not worship at Stonehenge, get to know the real Celts.

In The Celtic World, discover the incredible story of the Celtic-speaking peoples, whose art, language, and culture once spread from Ireland to Austria. This series of 24 enlightening lectures explains the traditional historical view of who the Celts were, then contrasts it with brand-new evidence from DNA analysis and archeology that totally changes our perspective on where the Celts came from. European history and culture have been profoundly affected by the Celts, from the myth of King Arthur to the very map of the United Kingdom, where the English confronted the peoples of the "Celtic Fringe."

With a wealth of historical expertise, Professor Jennifer Paxton (PhD Harvard University), Director of the University Honors Program and Clinical Assistant Professor of History at The Catholic University of America, guides you through each topic related to Celtic history with approachability and ease as you unearth what we once thought it meant - and what it may actually mean - to be Celtic. Professor Paxton's engaging, often humorous delivery blends perfectly with the facts about the Celts to uncover surprising historical revelations. The ancient Celts are very much alive in the literary and artistic traditions that their descendants have both preserved and very deliberately revived. All facets of Celtic life, past and present, are addressed by Professor Paxton, who demonstrates a masterful knowledge and carefully separates fact from myth at every turn. Come along for a ride through history to discover your inner Celt.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your Library section along with the audio.

©2018 The Great Courses (P)2018 The Teaching Company, LLC
Europe Witty Mythology Ancient History Middle Ages Celtic Mythology
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Most relevant
This is an excellent course, covering the history and cultures of the "Celtic world" from earliest times to the almost-present. While sympathetic in its approach, and showing the deep knowledge of the presenter, it also debunks a lot of the pop-history mythology about who the Celts were, where they came from, even whether there really were those invasions by waves of culturally homogeneous tribesmen. If it does dispose of some cherished notions, it replaces them with scenarios that are just as fascinating. I highly recommend this course to those interested in history and especially in learning about why some parts of these islands are the way they are.

An excellent (and up-to-date) overview

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Interesting and informative, will also revisit at a later date for reference. We'll structured and engaging.

Enntertaining

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I wanted to find something interesting, but without drama as I just wanted it on as background noise while I worked. It was a great course and I learnt a lot. Who knew the celts were in Turkey??!? Jennifer's narration was captivating and not boring to listen to. Lets hope she makes some more courses soon as I would be happy to purchase :)

Really enjoyed this offbeat topic

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Excellent course. Well presented. I really enjoyed it and learned alot. I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in history.

Great history

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I really enjoyed all of the lectures in this course which has given me deeper understanding of the origins of the Celtic nations, their languages and cultures. The course is delivered in a good pace and in combination of varied topics all linking together to create good overall picture of where and how Celtic people lived in the past and how they live now and how Celtic heritage impacts culture and lives these days.

Really enjoyable

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