Hey guys, I was wondering if anyone might know of any research
(articles or books) that have been written about potential IE
holidays, perhaps even how such might align with the 4 main
Celtic "feasts" [Imbolc, Samhain, Beltane, Lughnasadh]? And, on
that, I have recently found that China has strikingly similar--
perhaps TOO similar to be mere coincident--seasonal portals that
occur relatively close to thoise from Ireland: According to
this article, subsequently linked below (and Chinese Astronomy),
February 4 was regarded as the beginning of Spring (called Li Chu),
while the beginning of Summer was May 6 [Li xia]; the beginning of
autumn was August 8 [Li qiu]; and the beginning of winter was
November 8 [Li dong].
http://www.math.nus.edu.sg/aslaksen/calendar/cal2.pdf Although, it
must be discerned how these days were culled, and how they may differ
culturally from the Irish dates (they are usually tendered "Old
Style" and "New Style" due to the calendar change).
Sadly, I haven't found any research about what this data may
potentially prove (or not). Still, I find it very interesting and
would like to read something more about it, if I can find anything...
Hmmm...another facet I'd like to look into is something a dear friend
of mine has mentioned, before, that the star cluster, The Pleiades,
rises and sets at the "authentic" date for Beltane and Samhain! If
she is correct, one must wonder what importance this event may have
had! Moreover, if they rose or set for these two celebrations, it
begs the question: are/were there any astrological occurences to mark
either Imbolc or Lughnasadh?
Oh, and I'm more than half-way through Prof. West's book, "Indo-
European Poetry and Myth"--it's brilliant! Albeit not entirely
exhaustive, it ddefinately gives enough data for anyone in any fie;d
to concider. I'll be writing a review of it when I'm finished...
Hopefully I'll do it some justice! Ah...*I* just wish I could find a
copy of "Th Encyclopedia of Indo-European Culture" that won't break
the bank! *G*
Take Care,
Wade