Each Hero in Irish Mythology had his favourite sword, and some of these achieved legendary status. One of the most legendary objects in Irish Mythology was the Gae Bolga, granted to Cuchulainn by Scathach. This was a spear, which separated into many barbs on entering the body. It was impossible to remove, and its wound… [Read More]
Tuatha Dé Danaan
Background: After a great battle with the Formorians, where most of the Nemedians died, three groups managed to escape, and scattered around the world. One group worked hard to hone their skills and returned to Ireland under the aegis of the goddess Danu. Before their return, they had visited four great cities of the North…. [Read More]
Trendhorn
Overview: Trendhorn was a servant in the court of King Conor MacNessa, who was employed by the king on a spying mission. Stories of Deirdre: Conor MacNessa had sent word to the exiles Deirdre and the sons of Ushna that it was now safe for them to return to Ireland. He declared that Fergus MacRoy,… [Read More]
Sleeping Ulstermen
Background: Once a year the men of Ulster were stricken down with a sickness that lasted for nine days. During this time they were vulnerable and helpless and the reason was an ancient curse laid on them by the goddess Macha. The Curse of Macha: Macha was one of the great Celtic goddesses with responsibility… [Read More]
Niall
Background: Niall was the youngest son of the king. He himself reigned as king, and so did his descendants for 26 generations. The Story of Niall: The high king of Ireland, Eochaidh Mugmedon, had four sons by his first wife by Mongfind, and a fifth son by his second wife, Caireann Chasdubh. While Caireann was… [Read More]
Naoise
Overview Naoise was one of the three sons of Uisneach, and his tale forms part of the Ulster cycle. He figures in the story of Deirdre, who was foretold as the cause of great sorrow to Ulster before she was born. Stories of Naoise: It was said that she would be very beautiful but that… [Read More]
Morrigán
Background Morrigán means “phantom queen” and the Morrigán in Irish Mythology was a deity who could change shape and would influence the outcome in battles by playing with armies psychologically. Rather like Dionysus in Greek myth, the Morrigán could embody the darker side of nature, and work through alternate means, whether through drink or metamorphosis…. [Read More]
Midir
Overview Midir was one of the lesser lords of the Tuatha de Danann and is said to be responsible for crafting the rivers and lakes in the Irish countryside. Stories of Midir The main story concerning Midir relates to his courtship of the fairy maiden Etain. He took her as his consort, thus enraging his… [Read More]
Meas Buachalla
Background: Daughter of King Cormac of Ulster and Etain, who was daughter of a fairy-woman, she was abandoned because her father had wanted a son and was furious that the only child his wife bore him was a girl-child. Meas Buachalla’s Story: Rejected from the time of her birth, Meas Buachalla was cast aside by… [Read More]
Manannan
Background Manannan is regarded as the overlord of the semi-divine Tuatha de Danann. As such he is the sea god, since it is the sea which surrounds the island of Eire and protects it from harm. Stories of Manannan Manannan is very like the Greek Poseidon in that he is depicted as riding the waves… [Read More]
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