Books Should Be Free
Loyal Books
Free Public Domain Audiobooks & eBook Downloads
Search by: Title, Author or Keyword

The Fairy-Faith in Celtic Countries   By: (1878-1965)

Book cover

The Fairy-Faith in Celtic Countries by W. Y. Evans-Wentz is an extensive exploration of the magical and mythical beliefs held by the Celtic people in various countries. This well-researched book delves into the realms of Celtic folklore, presenting a comprehensive study of the pervasive fairy faith among the Celts.

Evans-Wentz, a dedicated scholar and folklorist, meticulously examines the beliefs, traditions, and experiences surrounding the fairy-faith across the Celtic lands. The author's painstaking efforts in collecting and documenting orally transmitted accounts from the local people elevate the authenticity of this work. He displays a deep respect for the Celtic cultural heritage, capturing the essence of their unique worldview.

The book immediately captures the reader's attention with its descriptive and evocative prose. Evans-Wentz seamlessly weaves together historical analysis, anthropological research, and personal interviews to present a comprehensive account of Celtic beliefs. The inclusion of folklore, myths, and legends adds richness to the narrative, immersing readers in the enchanted world of the Celts.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in Evans-Wentz's methodical approach to presenting the material. His deep scholarly expertise is evident as he dissects the different types of fairy experiences, categorizing and analyzing each encounter. From the mischievous sidhe folk to the majestic Tuatha Dé Danaan, the author provides a thorough exploration of the diverse beings that inhabit the Celtic supernatural realm.

Moreover, the author does not limit his investigation to legends and old tales. Evans-Wentz successfully delves into the contemporary relevance of the fairy-faith, documenting present-day encounters and beliefs. By doing so, he enriches the reader's understanding of the enduring impact of the fairy-faith on the Celtic people and demonstrates that these ancient beliefs are not simply remnants of the past, but a vivid and vibrant part of Celtic culture today.

Despite the book's academic nature, its accessible language and well-structured chapters make it suitable for both scholars and general readers. However, it must be noted that the author's focus on presenting a vast amount of complex information occasionally results in a dense read, which could pose a challenge to those seeking a light exploration of Celtic folklore.

In conclusion, The Fairy-Faith in Celtic Countries by W. Y. Evans-Wentz is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the realms of Celtic mythology and folklore. It provides a thorough and comprehensive study of the fairy-faith, preserving the traditions and beliefs of the Celtic people. While it may be dense at times, the book's depth and breadth of research make it a captivating and enlightening read for those yearning to explore the magical world of the Celts.

First Page:

[Illustration: From Photograph by the Author

THE MYSTIC CENTRE OF THE CELTIC WORLD CARNAC IN A. D. 1909 LOOKING TOWARD THE SUNRISE, FROM WITHIN THE CROMLECH, LES ALIGNEMENTS DU MÉNEC ]

THE FAIRY FAITH IN CELTIC COUNTRIES

BY W. Y. EVANS WENTZ

M.A. STANFORD UNIVERSITY CALIFORNIA U.S.A. DOCTEUR ÈS LETTRES UNIVERSITY OF RENNES BRITTANY B.SC. JESUS COLLEGE OXON.

HENRY FROWDE OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS LONDON, NEW YORK, TORONTO AND MELBOURNE 1911

OXFORD: HORACE HART PRINTER TO THE UNIVERSITY

THIS BOOK DEPENDS CHIEFLY UPON THE ORAL AND WRITTEN TESTIMONY SO FREELY CONTRIBUTED BY ITS MANY CELTIC AUTHORS, THE PEASANT AND THE SCHOLAR, THE PRIEST AND THE SCIENTIST, THE POET AND THE BUSINESS MAN, THE SEER AND THE NON SEER, AND IN HONOUR OF THEM I DEDICATE IT TO TWO OF THEIR BRETHREN IN IRELAND:

A. E., WHOSE UNWAVERING LOYALTY TO THE FAIRY FAITH HAS INSPIRED MUCH THAT I HAVE HEREIN WRITTEN, WHOSE FRIENDLY GUIDANCE IN MY STUDY OF IRISH MYSTICISM I MOST GRATEFULLY ACKNOWLEDGE;

AND

WILLIAM BUTLER YEATS, WHO BROUGHT TO ME AT MY OWN ALMA MATER IN CALIFORNIA THE FIRST MESSAGE FROM FAIRYLAND, AND WHO AFTERWARDS IN HIS OWN COUNTRY LED ME THROUGH THE HAUNTS OF FAIRY KINGS AND QUEENS.

OXFORD November 1911... Continue reading book >>




eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook
• iBooks for iPhone and iPad
• Nook
• Sony Reader
Kindle eBook
• Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook
• Load eBook in browser
Text File eBook
• Computers
• Windows
• Mac

Review this book



Popular Genres
More Genres
Languages
Paid Books