Here's a breakdown:
1. The Ogham Script:
* This was a unique alphabet used by the Celts in Ireland and Britain.
* It's mainly known for inscriptions on stones and wooden objects, often found in burial sites.
* While the script is deciphered, much about its language and context remains unclear.
2. Latin:
* Latin was used extensively by the Romans in their interactions with Celtic populations.
* Celtic languages were written in Latin script, particularly for official documents, literary works, and religious texts.
* This practice led to the preservation of some Celtic language elements.
3. Other Scripts:
* There's evidence of other, possibly Celtic-influenced scripts, such as the "Insular" script used in early medieval Ireland and Britain.
* However, the extent of their use and connection to Celtic languages remains under debate.
The Importance of Orality:
* Oral traditions were paramount in Celtic cultures.
* Stories, history, and laws were transmitted through bards and storytellers, rather than written texts.
* This is why our understanding of Celtic languages heavily relies on the evidence found in later literature and linguistic analysis.
Conclusion:
While there were written forms employed by some Celtic groups, a standardized, unified language was not widespread. The Celts primarily relied on oral traditions for communication and cultural transmission. Studying their written inscriptions, combined with linguistic analysis, helps us piece together the puzzle of their rich cultural heritage.