Glendower and the Otherworld: Celticism in The Raven Cycle

Abstract

This essay strives to describe the connection between the 19th century movement of the Celtic Twilight and the modern day young adult series The Raven Cycle. The Celtic Twilight influenced the way that the Celts are seen. The Raven Cycle shows a strong connection to Celtic literature and is influenced by certain aspects of Celticism, most clearly shown in the connection between nature and magic. Throughout the series magic is connected to nature, and strongest in places where there is an emphasis on nature. This is most visible in the Otherworld, Cabeswater, a magical forest where the characters are more in touch with nature and magic. The main characters learn to develop their magic with the help of the Otherworld. This leads to the main characters forming a stronger bond with each other, but with this bond they become more distant from reality and other people.