Irish Mythology
Ancient Irish history and legends have three main sources, known
in modern times as the Mythological Cycle, the Ulster Cycle
(also known as the Ultonian or Red Branch Cycle) and the Fenian
or Fianna Cycle. more... |
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Halloween
After St. Patrick brought Christianity to Ireland, it became
the goal of monks and missionaries to convert the pagan Irish.
Because the natives were so resistant to Christianity, the Church
sought to assist conversion by substituting Christian ‘versions’
of sacred days and deities for ancient Celtic ones.
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Samhain
Seems a bit odd in October, as we gather together costumes,
carve pumpkins, collect tinder for bonfires, and hang images
of goblins, ghouls and witches about our surroundings, doesn’t
it? Yet if you had lived in Ireland many centuries ago, this
would have been your New Year celebration!
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The Tuatha
de Danaan
The Irish book of Invasions was compiled in the 12th century
and relates several successful waves of mythical invasions of
Ireland. During the Fifth wave , the Tuatha de Danaan came through
the mists to invade Ireland. more... |
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The Story
of Fin MacCumhaíl
Cumhal Macart was a great champion in the west of Ireland, and
it was prophesied of him that if ever he married he would meet
death in the next battle he fought.
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The Pangs of
Ulster
Crunniuc mac Agnomain was a wealthy landowner and hostel-keeper
of Ulster. His wife was dead, and he lived with his sons in
a solitary place in the mountains.
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The
Conception of CúChulainn
The mystical story of how CúChulainn was conceived. more... |
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Táin Bó
Cúalnge - The Cattle-Raid of Cooley
The Cattle Raid of Cooley is one of many stories about the Red
Branch Knights of Ulster and the hero, CuChulainn, Hound of
Ulster. more...
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Brian Boru
- the last great High King of Ireland
The line between Irish Legend and Irish Myth has often been
blurred, especially as the retelling of heroic deeds has been
passed on through generations. Brian Boru was no legend although
his life deeds were legendary.
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The Children
of Lir: An Irish legend
The story of King Lir and his children is one of enchantment,
jealousy and tragedy. Lir's wife, Eva, had given him four beautiful
children, but died when the children were in their infancy.
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Cú Chullain – Mythological
Hero
Cú Chullain is one of the best-known figures in Irish mythology.
Originally named Setanta, Cú Chullain was the nephew and foster
son of King Conor of Emania. more... |
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The
Mythical Gods of the Gaels
Ireland came under Christian influence some time around the
fifth century. But what kind of faith existed before that.
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Celtic
Crosses - Ireland's Hidden Treasures
All across Ireland, ancient Celtic crosses can be seen in old
churchyards and cemeteries. IrishAbroad's Dermot O' Gara looks
at the origins of these monuments
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