Course Synopsis:

This course will explore the Celts of Ireland and Britain from the time of the druids down to the post-millennium world where we discover the emergence of literature relating to a king called Arthur. The following three questions underpin this course; what do we know of the Celts?, how do we know it?, and what is meant by the term ‘Celtic’? We will examine topics such as the development of Celtic kingdoms, the heroic ethos, the spread of Christianity and the cults of saints, everyday life and the family, the ‘golden age’ of Celtic art and manuscript, within which an extensive body of Celtic literature is found, and also the interaction between the Celtic-speaking world and its neighbours and foes. A historical and chronological framework is followed, as the course examines cultural change and developments to ca 1100AD.

Methods of Evaluation and Weights:

Mid-Term Exam - 30%  
Primary Source Analytical paper - 30%
Final Exam - 40%

Texts and/or Resources Required:

Charles-Edwards, T. (ed), After Rome (Oxford, 2003)

*Please note:  This is a preliminary web course description only.  The department reserves the right to change without notice any information in this description.  The final, binding course outline will be distributed in the first class of the semester.