Brigid is a mysterious figure, both goddess and saint, who is still revered worldwide today in her different aspects. Combining early Celtic history, archaeology and customs associated with both the goddess and the saint, this book provides a fascinating insight into the development of this unique mythical and historical figure. Using the available evidence, the author suggests a date for the conception of the deity Brigid, suggesting why and by whom she was created. He also explains how the goddess 'became' a saint and how this is historically linked with the unification of Ireland under a High King. The book goes on to look at how the goddess and the saint are still venerated in today's world, such as the burning of the perpetual flame in Ireland, relit by President McAleese in 2006.

Autorentext

Brian Wright

Zusammenfassung
Brigid of Kildare, Ireland, is uniquely venerated as both a goddess and a saint throughout Ireland, Europe and the USA. Often referred to as Mary of the Gael and considered the second most important saint in Ireland after St Patrick, her widespread popularity has led to the creation of more traditional activities than any other saint; some of which survive to this day. As a result of original historical and archaeological research Brian Wright provides a fascinating insight into this unique and mysterious figure. This book uncovers for the first time when and by whom the goddess was 'conceived' and evidence that St Brigid was a real person. It also explains how she 'became' a saint, her historical links with the unification of Ireland under a High King in the first century and discusses in depth her first documented visit to England in AD 488. Today, Brigid remains strongly connected with the fertility of crops, animals and humans and is celebrated throughout the world via the continuation of customs, ceremonies and relics with origins dating back to pre-Christian times. Using a combination of early Celtic history, archaeology, tradition and folklore from Ireland, Britain and other countries, this comprehensive study unravels the mystery of a goddess and saint previously complicated by the passage of time.