Introduction to the Celts

Uncover the origins of the Celts, trace their development through the Bronze and Iron Ages and learn of the three important Celtic cultures, known today as the Urnfield, Hallstatt and La Tène Cultures, as you journey through the Introduction to the Celts Diploma Course.

As you progress, you’ll follow Celtic movement through the ages, tracking them across ancient Europe, beginning with Greece and the South-East before moving on to the South and the Celt’s infiltration of the Iberian Peninsula. You’ll also examine the two areas where the Celts influence is still felt to this day – France and the British Isles.

The Celts created a solid society who put the needs of the tribe first. The Introduction to the Celts Diploma Course walks you through their social groupings, such as the Septs, and individual roles such as Chieftain, Druid, and Bard. Celtic law is also explained, along with how the Celts considered gender and sexuality.

Exploring Celtic society more deeply, you’ll examine the specifics of their everyday lives – the homes they built, pastimes they enjoyed and the clothes they made and wore. From this study, you’ll gain an understanding of the importance Celtic people placed on grooming and dress, which went beyond need and was a reflection of their pride in who they were as a people. Even the poorest Celt wore clean, well-mended clothing.

You’ll examine the spiritual beliefs of the Celts, the gods and goddesses they worshipped, and the festivals and holy days they observed – many of which are still celebrated, in one form or another, to this day.

Beyond their reputation as barbarous warriors, much of what we know about the Celts is through their art. The Introduction to the Celts Diploma Course takes you through the developments of their artistry - examining the early Celtic period, along with the Hallstatt and La Tène Cultures. It also considers the significant influence Christianity had on Celtic art and the resurgence in Celtic artwork during the time of conversion in Celtic Ireland and post-Roman Britain.

As the homeland for many Celtic tribes, Gaul was a place of great significance. You will learn about the Roman conquest of Gaul and the systematic eradication of the Celtic culture there. You will also discover the reasons behind the war in Gaul, and the most important battles and people of the time, including the hero, Vercingetorix.

The Romans also set about invading Britain. The course tracks the progress they made, the defence of Wales and why the Romans had difficulty penetrating Scotland and examines who among the Britons opposed them, such as the historical and legendary figures - Celtic king, Cymbeline and the warrior Queen, Boudicca.

The Introduction to the Celts Diploma Course concludes by looking at the legacy the Celts left, whilst considering the advanced capabilities of the Celts during the time of their existence, their innovation and artistry, and some of the Celtic customs that are still observed to this day.

By the end of the course you will:

• Have a comprehensive overview of the Celtic era
• Be able to identify key moments of the Celtic Age in continental Europe and the British Isles
• Be familiar with all the different aspects of Celtic society
• Have learned about the druids and other features of Celtic religion
• Be aware of the importance of Celtic art to European culture
• Have a well-rounded understanding of the Roman invasions of Gaul and Britain
• Know how the Celtic era came to an end

In their time, the Celts had an incredibly powerful influence on society, religion and art and left an impact on the world that is still felt to this day. History buffs will enjoy taking this journey from the very beginning of the Celt’s emergence to their eventual downfall, whilst discovering how these great people lived.