Sacred Groves & Last Stands

Edward T. Wimberley, Ph.D.

The Celts: Blood, Iron, and Sacrific (2015) with Alice Roberts and Neil Oliver Anthropologist Prof. Alice Roberts and archaeologist Neil Oliver go in search of the Celts - one of the world's most mysterious ancient people.

Part three tells the story of the Celts' last stand against the Roman army - a revolt led by another great leader, the warrior queen Boudicca.

The five-part BBC Film Series (2001), The Celts, explores the origins and beliefs of the Celts in artifacts and human remains across Europe.

In episode three - "Sacred Groves" - discusses Celtic mythology, legend, and belief, namely the pagan religion, Druidism, and then the introduction of Christian faith to the Irish and Scots.

Video:

• The Celts: Blood, Iron & Sacrifice,Part Three;
• The Celts: Episode 2 "Sacred Groves."

Readings:

• Overview of the History of Celts;
• A Brief History of the Celts by Peter B. Ellis (Chapters 4, 9 & 13),
• Evolution of the Celts (Maps)

Study Questions:

1. Describe how Celts buried their dead?
2. Who is Queen Boudica and what is here significance in Celtic history?
3. What is Camulodunum, what is its importance in Celtic history and what important event occured there?
4. What mistreatment befell Boudica and who administered it and why?
5. What role did "sacred groves" play in early celtic culture?
6. Who were the druids?