Description
Book SynopsisBy comparing the world depicted in the earliest Irish literary tradition with the archaeological evidence available on the ground, the author explores Ireland's rich mythological tradition and tests its claims to represent reality.
Trade Review'An essential modern reader on the development of our concepts of the most ancient past of Ireland … formidably referenced and thorough' - Irish Times
'Mallory’s book will be of interest to those already immersed in the study of medieval Ireland, but hopefully will also prove a way into this fascinating subject for those new to the field' - Times Higher Education
'An extensive, erudite and humorous study' - Current Archaeology
'Eminently readable and enjoyable' - Journal of Irish Archaeology
Table of ContentsIntroduction • 1: Discovering the Oldest Irish Tradition • 2: Impossible Stories and Impertinent Tales • 3: Excavating the Dreamtime • 4: The Archaeology of the Irish National Origin Legend • 5: The Natural Environment • 6: The Built Environment • 7: Warfare and Weapons • 8: Transport • 9: Material Culture • 10: Burial • 11: Whence the Dreamtime?
