Thanks Hilary for this post. I managed to watch the Kells animation last night. While it is undoubtedly beautiful, quite extraordinary, I was fundamentally disappointed. It’s the book of Kells and indeed Celtic Christianity purged of Christ, replaced instead by the vibe of “hope” and “light”. I found it as much neo-pagan as Christian. A common theme within contemporary Ireland, unfortunately. But yes, the artistic expression is superb.
Wow, that wattle house construction was very impressive. Probably very snug in those days, but a bit too dark and damp for me! The Book of Kells is amazing. I had seen the video while doing a free course about the book through Trinity College some years ago. Amazing. I love how most of New Testament figures have blond curly Celtish hair.
Isn't it neat? I'd certainly try to get some kind of flagstone floor in there. And putting the bed directly on the ground! I'd at least try to prop it up on stones or build it some legs or something.
Hilary, I have enjoyed your posts but this one is truly intriguing and very exciting. I am half Celt but have been quite ignorant of my roots and all of this is connecting little dots for me from my past. Thank you for delving and sharing.
Have you come across Richard Rohlin? He is a historian working with Jonathan Pageau on a series he calls "Universal History". He is currently covering early Irish / Briton Christianity, and how cultures somewhat cutoff and (quite literally here) insular go off into some strange directions. Definitely worth a listen.
Secret of Kells is one of my favorite movies - it is gorgeous (and I'm not usually that appreciative of animation....) I love the knotwork and the zoomorphic intricacies of Celtic art. Do you know Daniel Mitsui? His work is heavy with this influence. https://www.danielmitsui.com/
Thanks Hilary for this post. I managed to watch the Kells animation last night. While it is undoubtedly beautiful, quite extraordinary, I was fundamentally disappointed. It’s the book of Kells and indeed Celtic Christianity purged of Christ, replaced instead by the vibe of “hope” and “light”. I found it as much neo-pagan as Christian. A common theme within contemporary Ireland, unfortunately. But yes, the artistic expression is superb.
Wow, that wattle house construction was very impressive. Probably very snug in those days, but a bit too dark and damp for me! The Book of Kells is amazing. I had seen the video while doing a free course about the book through Trinity College some years ago. Amazing. I love how most of New Testament figures have blond curly Celtish hair.
Isn't it neat? I'd certainly try to get some kind of flagstone floor in there. And putting the bed directly on the ground! I'd at least try to prop it up on stones or build it some legs or something.
Righto. But gosh, it would be a saving gift if you had nothing else.
Hilary, I have enjoyed your posts but this one is truly intriguing and very exciting. I am half Celt but have been quite ignorant of my roots and all of this is connecting little dots for me from my past. Thank you for delving and sharing.
Generally the Anglosphere is extremely positive about Celts and Celtic stuff. I knew it was going to be a winner.
Have you come across Richard Rohlin? He is a historian working with Jonathan Pageau on a series he calls "Universal History". He is currently covering early Irish / Briton Christianity, and how cultures somewhat cutoff and (quite literally here) insular go off into some strange directions. Definitely worth a listen.
Secret of Kells is one of my favorite movies - it is gorgeous (and I'm not usually that appreciative of animation....) I love the knotwork and the zoomorphic intricacies of Celtic art. Do you know Daniel Mitsui? His work is heavy with this influence. https://www.danielmitsui.com/
Everyone knows his work. But I am happy to say he's the one whose advice moved me in the direction of sacred art.
We need to linger in Lorien and savor the beauty!