In a captivating event held at Alexandra College, Dr Stewart Macahater, a distinguished Professor of Celtic Archaeology from University College Dublin, concluded this year’s series of the Margaret Stokes Memorial Lectures with a profound exploration into Ireland’s ancient monuments. Dr Wilbraham Trench chaired the session, where attention was riveted on “The Stone Circles,” shedding light on their enigmatic past and cultural significance.
Dr Macahater illuminated the multifaceted nature of these ancient stone circles, suggesting they served both as sepulchral sites and vibrant centres of religious worship. Through meticulous examination of various excavations, it’s evident that burials were indeed conducted within some of these circles. However, their primary function appears to extend beyond mere burial grounds, hinting at a deeper, spiritual significance rooted in the religious beliefs of their creators.
The lecture journeyed through the evolution of myth interpretation over the past fifty years, challenging the once-dominant solar hypothesis with fresh perspectives that embrace a more nuanced understanding of ancient myths. Dr Macahater posited that these interpretations have evolved from simplistic celestial allegories to acknowledging the rich tapestry of beliefs that characterized early societies, including the worship of deified humans, animal deities, and the forces of nature.
A remarkable highlight was the discussion of a translated ancient poem from the Book of Leinster, which describes rituals associated with an idol known as Gran Crouch. This deity, condemned and ultimately eradicated by St. Patrick, was worshipped in a manner suggesting human sacrifices were made in its honour, within the confines of a stone circle.
The lecture further spotlighted the significance of Limerick in this ancient narrative, particularly through the examination of a prominent stone circle group at Loch Gur. Thanks to Sir Bertram Windle’s comprehensive survey, attendees were treated to a clearer picture of these enigmatic structures and their potential linkage to ancient sun worship practices.
Dr Macahater’s use of lantern slides to illustrate concentric circle ornaments underscored the possible connections between these ancient monuments and ritualistic dances centred around solar worship, offering a vivid glimpse into the spiritual life of Ireland’s ancestors.
In closing, the chairman underscored the evolution of archaeology from speculative endeavours to a discipline deeply rooted in scientific rigour. He highlighted the continuity of Ireland’s ancient past with the present, drawing attention to the survival of Macaulay names among the Irish peasantry, signifying a tangible link to prehistoric times.
The lecture served as a poignant reminder of the complexity and richness of human history, suggesting that even in the face of modern challenges, the essence of humanity — spanning from our primitive roots to our highest ideals — remains intricately connected to our ancient forebears. Through these explorations of ancient worship and stone circles, we are reminded of our continuous journey from the past to the present, embodying the enduring spirit of exploration and reverence for the mysteries that shape our world.
Evening Irish Times – Saturday 01 April 1916
