Our established impressions of early Celtic Ireland have come down to us through the great Irish myths & sagas, yet how do these images compare with archaeological evidence? The author seeks to present a comprehensive & lucid account of the Irish Iron Age. He discusses advances that took place in travel & transport; the common people; the local metalsmiths; & the religious beliefs exemplified by standing stones & offerings in lakes & rivers. New material is examined on Ireland`s contact with the Roman world & the final chapter reviews whether La Tene culture was spread to Ireland through invasion or diffusion.