Abstract This paper examines how, from a Druidic stand-point, animal experimentation and testing on animals would be deemed unethical, immoral, and against the beliefs and teachings of Druidism. It looks at how many modern Druids would probably reiterate that it is indeed against their beliefs, due to their strong ties to nature and the animal world. It discusses how, although some may argue that sacrifices played a role in Druidism, Druid rituals actually only required the use of animal bones or skins; animals were never used to experiment upon or abused for trophies. It also explores how Druids used animal remains and plants for medicinal reasons, as well as religious purposes.
From the Paper "By all accounts, Druids lived close to nature, where Nature and animals played a key role in their beliefs. They did not believe in fighting or war, but more in education and the sciences of philosophy, astronomy and poetry. There was a strong bond between man and animal, with many of the deities in Druidism had physical similarities to animals. Elements of nature "were inhabited by guardian spirits" (Pollack, pg226) and "the importance of animals in the religious life can also be seen in the fact that of the eight Druid festivals of the year, four of them, known as the Fire Festivals, are particularly related to the pastoral life of animal rearing and agriculture" (Carr-Gomm, pg8)."
Abstract This paper explains that, at the height of their domination in Europe, the Celtics, who were a warrior race in the 9th century B.C.E. that started on the island of Ireland, spread their religion across the British Isles to Turkey; however, they finally were conquered by the Romans and the Germanic tribes. The author points out that Druidism was passed down through an oral tradition typically kept by the bards and the ancient Druids; much of the Druids traditions are still kept because they were later recorded in medieval manuscripts and in oral tradition, folk lore and ritual. The paper concludes that, in the modern world, the Druids are still strong as a cultural fascination and several religious groups have been formed such as the British Druid Order and the Reformed Druids of North America.
Table of Contents
Celtic Paganism: A History
Celtic Traditions and Religions
Druidism and their Different Occupations
Influence of Christianity of the Druids
The Religious Beliefs of the Druids
Devices Used by the Druids
Druid Celebrations and Seasonal Celebrations
The Modern Druidic Movement
From the Paper "The Druids are known for having many celebrations and ceremonies throughout the year. Some of these celebrations are religious others commemorate special events within their history. The Druids celebrate a series of fire-festivals on the first of each of four months. These festivals would start at sunset and last for three days. When these ceremonies start, great bonfires are built on the hilltops and cattle would be driven between the two great bonfires to assure them fertility. Couples hoping to be married would jump over the bonfire and run between them to encourage fertility as well. These festivities all have special significance within the culture of the Druids. The first is the Samhain, which means the end of the warm season. It takes place on November 1st which marks the combined feast of the dead and the new years day celebration on the Celtic calendar. This is the time when the veil between our reality and the reality of the otherworld can be easily penetrated. Thus, communication with those who have past beyond the veil is possible and many ceremonies attempt to communicate with the dead during this festival. Later the Christians would adopt the fire festival as the All Soul's Eve, and later it would become the secular holiday Halloween."
Abstract This paper examines in brief the history of this monumental stone circle, its construction and the myths that have grown up around it especially during the 20th century. The paper concludes that the monument remains so compelling in large measure because we know so little about it.
From the Paper "Stonehenge, a monumental circular setting of large standing stones surrounded by a circular earthwork, was constructed in several phases about eight miles north of Salisbury in Wiltshire, England. It was begun as long as 5000 years ago with the outer bank, the ditch, and the Aubrey holes encircling the main construction dating from probably the late Stone Age or early Bronze Age (circa 2000BC). The main structure dates from between the early Bronze Age and the end of the Iron Age. The sarsen - or sandstone - stones date from the about 1500BC (Chippindale 18)."
Abstract The paper discusses Druids in Celtic times and mentions the recent revival of Druidism in Britain. Information was gathered from ancient literature in which Druids have made frequent appearances.
Table of Contents
How Druids Legend have Survived
Who Were the Druids
Why Druids Emerged
Worship Method: Stone Circles
Culture and Festivals of Druids
Druids Today
From the Paper "Mysteries and legends may appear to many as fabricated stories that made their appearance from time to time for the purpose of sheer entertainment. Hence, they feel that these mysteries do not hold much attraction except for providing man with temporary entertainment and mostly are forgotten by both the storyteller and his audience the moment the gathering comes to an end. But why have some legends managed to withstand the test of time? "
