'An essential modern reader on the development of our concepts of the most ancient past of Ireland ... formidably referenced and thorough' - Irish Times 'Mallory's book will be of interest to those already immersed in the study of medieval Ireland, but hopefully will also prove a way into this fascinating subject for those new to the field' - Times Higher Education 'An extensive, erudite and humorous study' - Current Archaeology 'Eminently readable and enjoyable' - Journal of Irish Archaeology