Celtic Folkore Expansion
In the article, Honti's work "Celtic Studies and European Folk-Tale Research" (1936) explores the intricity of pagan folklore practices. Through analysis of oral tales, Honti explains the usage of migration analysis to determine how Celtic folklore is autochthonous. He also examines the discourse surrounding this idea and other previously thought migration patterns that lead other theorists to different conclusions. The isolation of Celtic pagan traditions is incredibly important to see how they traveled throughout the rest of Europe and to determine what is Celtic Pagan folklore. This study analyzes the cultural significance of symbolism and migration geography while expanding on Honti’s ideas in relevance to previously thought theories.
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Origins in France:
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Due to Celtic Folklore's autochthonous nature, it is possible to examine when France began being influenced by it. The first Celts were noted in France during 1200 B.C. The Gauls were the first tribe in France and the French people of the current day with Celtic ancestry are referred to as the Gaulois. Eventually, the Celts were forced to the Western parts of France by the Romans which is why cities like Lyon (original name Lugnum) where the Celts formed in 43 B.C. were quickly taken over by Christianity as well as Roman practices.
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Current-Day Celtic Historic Sites in France:
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The Carnac Menhirs
The most popular Celtic site in Brittany is also the most unique. The question of why 4,000 menhirs, 14 feet tall were created? According to medieval legend, these raised stones are the remains of a Roman army, petrified in battle by Saint Cornely.
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Paimpont Forest
The Paimpont Forest, near Rennes, is at the heart of the Arthurian legend, which is deeply rooted in Celtic culture. These woods are associated with the mythical forest of Brocéliande, home of Merlin the Wizard. The forest’s most important area is the Val Sans Retour (Valley of No Return), an enchanted land where Morgana the sorceress imprisoned unfaithful lovers before eventually being overtaken by Lancelot. There is also a very popular pond reflecting similar lore.
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Locronan Village
Locronan is located near the tip of the Finistère region and used to be a mecca of Druidic culture. Twelve menhirs represent each month of the year, and each is dedicated to a deity from the Celtic pantheon. Later Christianized by Saint Ronan, the village has since been perfectly preserved and boasts a rare example of medieval architecture. What’s more, in 2013, it will host the Grande Troménie, a Catholic pilgrimage and parade inspired by Celtic tradition.
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all information taken from Explore France
