Blood and Mistletoe

In this engaging cultural history, Ronald Hutton explores the elusive legacy of the Druids, tracing their evolving image over two thousand years of British history. Despite scarce direct evidence from their time, Hutton examines how successive generations have reimagined these ancient figures—shaping perceptions of patriotism, rebellion, and wisdom—particularly during the romantic period when Druids became central to British prehistory. Blending legends with new insights, the book reveals the enduring influence of the Druids as catalysts in shaping British cultural identity.