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Many of our ideas of who the Druids were are based on the misunderstandings and misconceptions of scholars 200 years ago. But history was being written by the winners and so it is through the writings of Julius Caesar that the original ancient Druids are remembered. The Druids are often represented as magicians and diviners opposing the Christian missionaries. Druids are now making a long overdue reappearance and although temporarily stuck with the mystical image of magic and wizardry, are beginning to be understood as revering nature and the changing cycle of the year. The Druid celebrations and rituals reflect this.

Understanding Druids

Druids originally were the equivalent of modern priests and were also often the philosophers, scientists, lore-masters, teachers, judges and councillors to the kings. Druids could be men or women. Many Druids were women and the Celtic woman enjoyed more freedom and rights than women in any other contemporary culture, including the right to enter battle, and also if she wished divorce her husband. Our historical knowledge of the Druids is very limited as the Druids themselves felt no compulsion to ever record their activities, relying on word of mouth and a high profile.

Druids in Ireland

In Irish literature, the Druids are frequently mentioned. The Druids are represented as being able to foretell the future and before setting out on the great expedition against Ulster, Medb, queen of Connaught, goes to consult a Druid. There is some evidence that the Druids of Ireland survived into the mid to late seventh century.

Druids & Stonehenge

Druids have had a long history of being connected with Stonehenge at the solar festivals, particularly the Summer Solstice, and many feel it to be an important temple. Like the enigmatic stones of Stonehenge, the Druids are doing their best to make sure that man will always be able to stare at the rising sun and know that there are forces out there. After several years of exclusion, for the summer solstice of 1997 the authorities finally relented and the Druids were allowed back into Stonehenge to observe and celebrate the sunrise.

Learn more about this author, Cathy Linton.
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