Professor Jennifer Paxton

“Celtic art” is an inexact term given that recent scholars are uncertain about the distinct ethnic identity of the Celts. Art historians prefer to talk about the La Tène style because of the archaeological finds in western Switzerland. Nevertheless, the ancient La Tène or Celtic style of art is distinct and fascinating. Let’s delve in. […]

Two archaeological sites in Central Europe are associated with the rise of the Celts: the Hallstatt culture in western Austria, and the site at La Tène, in western Switzerland. Rooted in the 1st millennium B.C., the culture at La Tène produced much spectacular art associated with the Celts. Explore some of the artifacts from this fascinating culture. […]

Historians learn about a culture by studying both written texts and material objects. The archaeological story is richer, but also much more complicated than scholars used to think. In fact, recent scholarship has had a revolutionary impact on our understanding of the Celts. Let’s investigate the old model of the Celtic identity. […]

The Celtic invasion of Europe began in Italy, and then spread to Greece and Spain. Discover how the Celts became so synonymous with terror and intimidation, that they were hired as mercenaries around the Mediterranean. You’ll also explore some aspects of Celtic culture that remain mysteries to this day. […]

The historical view of ancient Celtic culture necessarily passes through the lens of Greek and Roman writings. Though rife with stereotypes, many of these stories are quite entertaining. Explore the many facets of the Celts as fierce warriors and fitness fanatics who may have indulged in the occasional human sacrifice. […]

Few primary sources exist to educate historians about the ancient Celts. Thus we must rely on the writings of the Greeks and Romans, which are filtered through their biased perceptions. Learn how the Celts were often stigmatized and portrayed as barbarians. […]