Читать книгу The Element Encyclopedia of the Celts - Rodney Castleden - Страница 157

Celtic chiefs competed with each other in the giving of lavish feasts, so feasts should be regarded as a form of gift (See Food and Feasting). There was also a principle of reciprocation: the guest was expected to respond in kind, inviting his host to another banquet.

This set in train an endless cycle of exchanges of food and drink, the purpose of which was to consolidate social ties. Of course the feasts were very enjoyable, but the temptation to be over-zealous was always there, to try to outdo your host. Ariamdes, a Celtic nobleman from Galatia, threw a feast that was so extravagant that it represented a year’s supply of food.