Poetry was an important and respected part of Celtic culture. One's social rank depended on their poetry skills, and soldiers and members of the elite fighting force Fianna had to demonstrate poetry abilities. Poets, called Bards, held a high status similar to warriors. The Celts believed learning poetry was essential to connecting with nature and gaining the love of the gods. Poems and songs were orally passed down through generations in the Celtic tradition.

1. Celtic Poetry!

2. Was poetry respected? One’s knowledge of poetry determined their rank in the class system A soldier must not only be a good warrior, but must also be able to speak in poetry form at any given moment.

3. Why was poetry important? Talking in poetry form was common. In order to become a member of the Fianna, one would have to master speaking through poetry.

4. Poets Poets were known as Bards The society respected Bards as much as great warriors. Bards were believed to have special powers

5. Poetry and Nature Believed learning poetry was key to becoming one with nature. In order for gods to love you, one must learn to memorize and recite poetry.

6. Oral Tradition Poems and songs were passed by the word of mouth from generation to generation

7. Opinions Opinions I believe the Celts were able to create beautiful poetry because they were surrounded by beautiful nature.

8. Bibliography 1. "Bards." Timeless Myths. Timeless Myths, 240706. Web. 145 Apr 2010. <http://www.timelessmyths.com/celtic/bards.html>. 2. "Celtic Poetry." Thepoetsgarret. Australia, n.d. Web. 14 Apr 2010. <http://www.thepoetsgarret.com/celtic1.html>. 3. "The Celts." Crystalinks. Crystalinks, 2003. Web. 14 Apr 2010. <http://www.crystalinks.com/celts.html>.