Did the Celts Have a Written Language?

The Celts, a diverse and widespread group of peoples with a rich cultural heritage, are often associated with their robust oral traditions. However, the question of whether they had a written language is more complex. This article explores the existence, evolution, and implications of Celtic writing from ancient times to more recent periods.

The Evidences of Celtic Writing

Contrary to the belief that Celtic peoples did not have a written language, various archaeological and historical findings have demonstrated the presence of written systems used by different Celtic groups:

1. Gaulish and Gaul-Iberian Writing

The Celts in regions like Gaul (modern-day France) and Gallia Narbonensis, as well as those in the Iberian Peninsula, employed several scripts. Initially, the Gaulish writing was based on the Greek alphabet, due to the proximity to Greek colonies in southern Italy. Later, as the Gauls settled in Gallia Cisalpina, they adapted the North Italian Etruscan script. This script was also used by the Etruscans, Veneti, and Lepontic languages (see Lepontic Gallia Transalpina and Gallia Cisalpina for detailed comparisons).

2. Celt-Iberian Writing

Specifically in Spain, the Celt-Iberians developed their own written traditions. Their writing shows a combination of Greek, Etruscan, and possibly Latin influences. This is evident in the Lepontic inscriptions found in northern Italy and in Iberian texts from Spain. The Celt-Iberian script features unique characters like the Ts-like symbol, which can represent either C, K, or G, and is similar to the Russian Ц.

3. Ogham Alphabet in Ireland

In Ireland, the Ogham alphabet emerged around the 4th century AD. This linear script was used primarily for inscribing stones, and it played a crucial role in recording important historical and genealogical information. Examples of Celtic writing in the form of Ogham are found on standing stones and cross-slabs, contributing to the nation's rich cultural heritage.

Complexity and Evolution of Celtic Writing

While there are well-known texts from early periods, it is important to note that the primary means of communication for the Celts was oral. Oral traditions were essential for the transmission of history, mythology, and legal codes. However, the adoption of writing systems by some Celtic groups, particularly in regions under Roman influence, marked a significant turning point in their cultural evolution.

Examples of Written Sentences

Gaulish inscriptions typically followed a subject-first order, as seen in the following examples:

Netsamon delgu linda.

Of the nearest I hold the drinks.

Bardos deueorbuetid trouceton uirobo.

The bard takes the sadness from men.

The Continued Use of Ogham

In Ireland, and to some extent in Scotland, the Ogham alphabet remained in use even after the advent of Christianity. It served as a valuable tool for recording important history and family lineage, reflecting the enduring importance of written language among the Celts in these regions.

Conclusion

While the Celts' primary mode of communication was oral, their use of written languages, particularly in the form of inscriptions and scripts, was significant. From the Greek and Latin alphabets to the uniquely Celtic Ogham, the evidence of Celtic writing extends from ancient times to more recent periods, highlighting the rich and diverse cultural heritage of this remarkable people.