Celtic Literature: from the Middle Ages to the Modern World

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

In this class we will read and analyze a range of legends, myths, stories and more recent YA/ fantasy literature about the gods and goddesses, heroes and heroines of early Ireland and Wales. The original accounts, written in the Middle Ages (and read in English translation - no linguistic experience necessary!), provide insights into the medieval cultural contexts and goals behind these stories. However, we will also consider contemporary transformations of Celtic myth and legend in contemporary fiction and pop culture and ask how our expectations and tastes for the Celtic past speak to our worldview today. Requirements include an exam, multiple writing exercises, oral presentations, and 1-2 longer papers.