Fingal's Cave, the poems of Ossian, and Celtic Christianity
By: Paul M. Allen and Joan deRis Allen.
Contributors: Allen, Joan deRis, 1931-
Publisher: Continuum
Published: 1999
Place of publication: New York
Language: eng
Number of pages: 198
Subjects: Macpherson, James, 1736-1796.; Finn MacCumhaill, 3rd cent. -- In literature.; Macpherson, James, 1736-1796 -- Influence.; Ossian, 3rd cent. -- In literature.; Literary forgeries and mystifications -- History -- 18th century.; English poetry -- Celtic influences.; Bards and bardism in literature.; Mythology, Celtic, in literature.; Celts -- Religion.; Fingal's Cave (Scotland) -- In literature.; Fingal's Cave (Scotland)
Description: On the isolated island of Staffa, next to Iona in Scotland, stands one of the natural wonders of the world. Fingal's Cavean extraordinary Cathedral-like space, with sides and roof of hexagonal basaltic columns, with a floor made of the ocean, which is constantly making musical sounds as the tides ebb and flow. This cave has been a source of mystery, spiritual insight, and artistic inspiration for centuries.

To understand Fingal, and his importance in Celtic culture, we must understand both the poems of Ossian, collected by the 18th century poet James Macpherson, and the development of Celtic Christianity from the druids and bards of long ago. Paul and Joan Allen describe the history and importance of Fingal's Cave and The Poems of Ossian to contemporary culture today, and show why they have influenced many diverse figures including Mendelssohn, Jefferson, Napoleon, Turner, and others.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references (p. [197]-198).