During medieval times in the Celtic world, Christianity may have been on the rise but many held onto their beliefs in traditional gods and goddesses. Anna was the figure they looked toward to protect them in battle. She represented loyalty, purity of spirit, and courage of conviction. Battle was often waged by very loyal, bands of knights against marauding invaders, such as the Vikings or Normans. It was believed that those who died valiantly in battle would be escorted by Anna to the next world. A fallen king’s targ (or shield) in hand and claymore (sword) nearby, Anna awaits her new charges.