The problem with Wicca and most neo-pagan styles at the moment is that the fluffy-carebear persona is what most people associate with it. You can thank folks like Silver Ravenwolf, and the kids that assume that 'Charmed' is a heathen's version of some sort of TBN show.

Litmus test: If someone tells you that the current flavor of Wicca is really "Centuries old!" in breathless tones... walk away. Syncretic paganism pulls together mythologies new and old, and is not always carebear - but it is frequently so, due to the perceived easiness of taking that route. Wicca, when capitalized in a discussion, is often Gardnerian Wicca, heavily ritualized magic that was formed in the first half of the 20th century and bears some Crowley influence. Neither is 'ancient.' You'd have better luck with the hardcore voudou who still actually work with their blood, though they get syncretic too, by a matter of survival.

Truthfully, and speaking as a neo-Kemetic, I'd ignore any current belief system when researching a druidic mindset and go straight to history. Plunge through the Golden Bough. Pick up some Old Celt myths. Look into the Japanese Yokai for fun - maybe your fishing pole has a spirit in it, too!

But don't just read Mists of Avalon and assume you're good to go. :P

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