Celtism

Celtism is a term used to describe the cultural, linguistic, and artistic phenomena associated with the Celts and their modern descendants. In scholarly and popular usage, Celtism encompasses the historical Celtic world—encompassing Iron Age and Roman-era peoples of Gaul, the British Isles, and parts of Iberia—as well as contemporary expressions of Celtic identity in regions such as Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Brittany, Cornwall, and the Isle of Man. It can denote a consciously maintained or revived sense of Celtic heritage, as well as the study of Celtic languages, folklore, art, and social customs.

Linguistically, Celtism engages with the Celtic language family, including Goidelic languages (Irish, Scottish Gaelic, Manx) and Brittonic languages (Welsh, Breton, Cornish). Archaeologically and artistically, it often involves La Tène styles and artifacts, as well as mythologies and epic traditions central to Celtic cultures.

In modern usage, Celtism is often connected with cultural revival movements, language promotion, music, festivals, and literature that emphasize Celtic heritage.

It is distinct from purely academic Celtic studies (Celtology) and from political ideologies; it aims to describe or promote cultural continuity rather than advocate specific political platforms.

Related topics include Celtic studies, Celtic revival, Goidelic languages, Brittonic languages.