Carmina Gadelica: Hymns and Incantations
Carmina Gadelica: Hymns and Incantations
Paperback
by Alexander Carmichael
Carmina Gadelica: Hymns and Incantations with Illustrative Notes on Words, Rites, and Customs, Dying and Obsolete; Orally Collected in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland by Alexander Carmichael
This timeless classic, originally published in 1900, is a treasure trove of hymns and incantations from the Scottish Highlands and Islands. Collected and translated by Alexander Carmichael, "Carmina Gadelica" offers a unique glimpse into the rich oral traditions and cultural heritage of the Gaelic-speaking communities. This volume is not just a collection of hymns; it is an immersive journey through the rites, customs, and folklore that shaped the spiritual life of Scotland's rugged landscapes.
Meticulously preserved and reintroduced by Leopold Classic Library, this edition has undergone stringent quality control to ensure the best possible reading experience. Each hymn and incantation is accompanied by illustrative notes, providing valuable context and insight into the words and practices that were once central to daily life in the Highlands. Readers will discover prayers for protection, blessings for everyday tasks, and invocations of ancient deities, all imbued with the deep spirituality and lyrical beauty characteristic of Gaelic poetry.
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of "Carmina Gadelica," where every page is a testament to the enduring power of oral tradition and the timeless wisdom of a people intimately connected to their land and their faith. This book is a must-have for anyone interested in folklore, religious studies, or Scottish history, offering a rare and precious window into a way of life that is both profoundly ancient and touchingly human.
About the Author
Alexander Carmichael was born in 1832 on the island of Lismore. His work as a civil servant took him all over the Scottish Highlands and the Hebrides. During his travels he recorded these poems and prayers. Two volumes of the collection appeared before his death in 1912. The remaining volumes appeared later, edited by his daughter and grandson.
