What was a Druid in ancient Celtic societies?
Q: What was a Druid in ancient Celtic societies?
A: A Druid was a member of the priestly and learned class in the pre-Christian, ancient Celtic societies.
Q: Where did these societies exist?
A: These societies existed through much of Western Europe, until the Roman government took over and, later, Christianity arrived.
Q: What were the tribal peoples called?
A: The tribal peoples were called "Keltoi" (Κέλτοι) or "Keltai" (Κέλται) and "Galatai" (Γαλάται) by the Greeks and "Celtae" and "Galli" by the Romans.
Q: What duties did Druids have?
A: In the communities they served, druids combined the duties of priest, arbitrator, healer, scholar, and magistrate.
Q: Did both men and women serve as druids?
A: Yes, both men and women served as druids.
Q: Is there evidence for female druids?
A: There is no early proof for female druids, or druidesses.
Q: When did the Roman government take over and Christianity arrive?
A: The Roman government took over and, later, Christianity arrived after much of Western Europe had already had these ancient Celtic societies.
