Samhain: From Celtic Roots to Halloween

This chapter explores the rich Celtic traditions of Samhain, highlighting the vibrant gatherings where fairy tales intertwined with feasting and cultural identity. It details Lady Wilde's documentation of these stories amidst Irish history's challenges and the transformation of Samhain into the modern celebration of Halloween. The narrative also examines the impact of the Catholic Church's adaptation of pagan customs, along with the socio-political dynamics surrounding witchcraft and religious reform during the 16th and 17th centuries.