Cool People Who Did Cool Stuff Part One: Druids: Because the Past is Metal as Hell
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Oct 27, 2025 Sophie Rae Lichterman, a dedicated producer and researcher, shares her insights on the captivating world of druids and Celtic philosophers. The discussion ranges from the true roles of druids as mediators and judges to the fascinating intersection of blacksmith folklore and magic. They explore the historical biases from Roman narratives, the debate over women druids, and the contrast between Celtic communal practices and Roman hierarchies. Lastly, they link ancient rituals to modern cultural echoes, inviting listeners into a metal-as-hell exploration of their legacy.
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Druids As Civic Intellectuals
- Druids functioned largely as mediators, judges, and philosophers rather than only as priests or witches.
- They deescalated conflicts and sometimes served as political advisors or even generals, showing broad social power.
Iron's Sacred Power
- Iron carried layered magical and practical meaning in early medieval Ireland, seen as protecting against fairies and supernatural harm.
- Blacksmiths gained social power because iron's uses ranged from tools and weapons to symbolic protection and luck.
Anvil Curses And Community Rituals
- Margaret recounts an Irish belief that a blacksmith can curse someone by pointing an anvil horn east and pronouncing a curse.
- She describes townspeople moving an anvil and striking it on Easter to stop an eviction, showing communal ritual power.
