Celtic Women
What was it like for Ancient Celtic Women?
Celtic women were distinct in the ancient world for the liberty and rights they enjoyed and the position they held in society. Compared to their counterparts in Greek, Roman, and other ancient societies, they were allowed much freedom of activity and protection under law.
Warriors/Rulers
Ancient Celtic women served as both warriors, military leaders, and ruling queens. Young girls, and boys of course, were trained to fight with swords and other weapons.
The practice of bearing arms was relatively common among women. Women were recorded as having taken part in the final battle against Caius Suetonius Paulinus, when he advanced upon the druid stronghold on the island of Mona (now Anglesey), in present-day Wales.
In battle, women made great use of psychological tactics such as screeching, dancing wildly, and pulling at their faces. These acts frightened and distracted their opponents, allowing them to advance and gain control in battle.
Public Life
Celtic women in public life were not systematically excluded from any occupation, and played a prominent role in public life, alongside men. Women could become poets, druids, priestesses, and healers.
They didn’t require the consent of their husbands to carry out business. They could serve as diplomats, such as an ambassador. Celtic women act as mediators or judges in military or political disputes. They played similar roles in mediating in their own tribal assemblies.
Marriage and Women’s Rights under Law 💍
The ancient celts seemed to view marriage as a partnership between men and women. Women had legal protections and could not be married against their will. In comparison to Roman law, in which women were property of their husbands.
Celtic women chose their husbands and owned or inherited property independently. Jean Marale, a historian, explained that “Celtic marriage was essentially contractual, social, not at all religious, but based on the freedom of the husband and wife”.
Divorced women were not judged or looked down upon and were always free to remarry. Ancient celts were polygamous, and women including men, would have multiple partners.
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