Miotaseolaíocht

Abhartach was a legendary figure from Irish folklore in Ulster who is sometimes cited as a possible origin for what?

Abhartach was a tyrannical dwarf-chieftain from Derry in Ulster who, according to legend, refused to stay dead after being killed and demanded blood from his subjects. He had to be killed with a sword of yew, buried upside down, and pinned with a thorn. Some scholars have suggested Abhartach may have influenced Bram Stoker's Dracula.

The Amadán na Bruidhne in Irish folklore was particularly feared because of what?

The Amadán na Bruidhne (Fool of the Fairy Mound) was considered one of the most dangerous fairies in Irish folklore. His touch — the 'fairy stroke' — was said to cause sudden paralysis, madness, or death. He was said to ride out especially in June. The term 'amadán' (fool) is still used in Irish.

Balor of the Evil Eye was the king of which enemies of the Tuatha Dé Danann?

Balor was the fearsome king of the Fomorians — the chaotic, dark supernatural beings who preceded and warred with the Tuatha Dé Danann. His eye was so deadly that it destroyed everything it looked upon when opened. He was slain by his own grandson Lugh at the Second Battle of Mag Tuired.

In Irish tradition, the banshee was said to follow only certain families. What characteristic identified these families?

In Irish tradition, the banshee was said to follow specific families of ancient Gaelic or Milesian descent — primarily those whose surnames began with 'O' (Ó) or 'Mac'. The O'Briens, O'Connors, O'Neills, O'Gradys, and Kavanaghs were among the families said to have their own banshee. Newly settled families of Viking, Norman, or English descent were not believed to have a banshee.

In Irish folklore, what does hearing a banshee (bean sídhe) foretell?

The banshee (bean sídhe — 'woman of the fairy mound') is a spirit in Irish folklore who wails or keens outside a house to warn of an impending death in the family. She is one of the most enduring figures in Irish supernatural tradition.

The festival of Bealtaine, celebrated on 1 May, traditionally marked what?

Bealtaine (1 May) was one of the four major Celtic seasonal festivals, marking the beginning of summer. Cattle were driven between two bonfires for purification before being moved to summer pastures. May bushes decorated with ribbons and flowers were set up outside homes. The name may derive from the god Bel and 'tine' (fire).

In the Fenian Cycle, Bran and Sceólang were the two famous hounds of Fionn Mac Cumhaill. What was unusual about their origin?

Bran and Sceólang were the beloved hounds of Fionn Mac Cumhaill, famed for their speed and hunting ability. Their origin was tragic — they were Fionn's own cousins, the children of his aunt Tuiren, who had been transformed into dogs by a jealous fairy woman named Uchtdealb. Though eventually restored to human form, Bran and Sceólang remained as hounds.

According to Irish folk tradition, why is a St Brigid's Cross hung in the home?

St Brigid's Cross, made on 1 February and hung in the rafters of homes and byres, was believed to protect the household from fire, lightning, illness, and evil spirits — including the evil eye. It was also believed that Brigid herself visited homes on the eve of her feast day, so a cross or cloak was left out for her to bless.

The goddess Brigid in Irish mythology was associated with which domains?

The goddess Brigid was associated with poetry and learning, healing, and smithcraft — three domains considered sacred in early Irish culture. She was a daughter of the Dagda. Her festival, Imbolc (1 February), was later Christianised as the feast of St Brigid.

In Irish nationalist tradition, the Shan Van Vocht (Poor Old Woman) was a symbolic figure representing what?

The Shan Van Vocht (Seanbhean Bhocht — 'Poor Old Woman') is a symbolic figure in Irish nationalist tradition representing Ireland herself — an old woman transformed into a beautiful young queen by the sacrifice of those who die for her. W.B. Yeats used this figure in his play Cathleen Ni Houlihan (1902), which was said to have sent men to their deaths in 1916.

The Cat Sídhe in Irish and Scottish folklore was believed to be what?

The Cat Sídhe (fairy cat) in Irish and Scottish folklore was described as a large, black cat with a white spot on its chest that could be either a fairy or a witch who had taken cat form. It was associated particularly with Samhain, when it was said to steal souls. In some traditions, it walked upright and was larger than a normal cat.

The Battle of Mag Mucrama belongs to which cycle of Irish mythology?

The Battle of Mag Mucrama (Cath Maige Mucrama) belongs to the Historical Cycle (Cycle of the Kings), which deals with historical and semi-historical kings and events. It concerns the conflict between Lugaid Mac Con and Art mac Cuinn (father of Cormac mac Airt). The battle took place in Galway around the 3rd century AD.

In Irish folklore, what is a changeling?

A changeling is a fairy child (or elderly fairy) left in the place of a human baby stolen by the fairies. Changelings were said to be sickly, fretful, and unnaturally wise. Belief in changelings was used to explain illnesses such as failure to thrive. The belief persisted in rural Ireland into the 19th century.

In the tale of the Children of Lir, what were the children transformed into?

The Children of Lir is one of the Three Sorrows of Irish Storytelling. Lir's four children — Fionnuala, Aodh, Fiachra and Conn — were transformed into swans by their jealous stepmother Aoife, condemned to spend 900 years on lakes and seas of Ireland before being freed when Christianity arrived.

What is the tradition of 'clootie wells' (or rag wells) in Ireland and Scotland?

At clootie wells (also called rag wells or toibreacha), pilgrims tie strips of cloth (clooties or rags) to trees beside holy wells after dipping them in the water and touching them to the affected part of the body. As the rag decays, it is believed the illness will fade. Removing someone else's rag risks taking on their illness.

How does a clurichaun differ from a leprechaun in Irish folklore?

The clurichaun is a close relative of the leprechaun in Irish folklore but is typically depicted as drunk, mischievous, and associated with wine cellars, which it raids at night. Unlike the solitary leprechaun who makes shoes, the clurichaun is a nocturnal troublemaker. Some folklorists suggest they are the same creature in different moods.

Cormac mac Airt is regarded in the Historical Cycle as one of Ireland's greatest High Kings. He is sometimes called the 'Irish Solomon' because of his reputation for what?

Cormac mac Airt (reigned traditionally c. 227–266 AD) is regarded as a golden age High King at Tara and was celebrated for his wisdom, justice, and the laws and institutions he established. He founded the Fianna under Fionn Mac Cumhaill, established Tara as the seat of High Kingship, and is said to have received a wonderful cup that broke if three lies were told over it.

The Cú Sídhe in Irish folklore was a supernatural fairy dog with what characteristics?

The Cú Sídhe (fairy dog) in Irish and Scottish folklore was a large supernatural dog, typically dark green in colour, that was eerily silent as it hunted. Its bark, heard three times, was a death omen. The Cú Sídhe was associated with the sídhe and was said to be used by the fairy folk for herding fairy cattle.

Who is the central hero of the Ulster Cycle of Irish mythology?

Cú Chulainn is the great hero of the Ulster Cycle. His name means 'hound of Culann' — earned after he killed the smith Culann's guard dog and took its place. He is famous for his superhuman feats, including single-handedly defending Ulster against the armies of Connacht during the Táin Bó Cúailnge.

What was a 'fairy doctor' (dochtúir sí) in Irish folk tradition?

A 'fairy doctor' in Irish folk tradition was a wise person (often called a bean feasa — 'woman of knowledge') who could diagnose fairy-induced illness, negotiate with the fairy world, find stolen objects, lift fairy curses, and protect people from supernatural harm. They occupied a respected but sometimes feared role in their communities.

The Dagda was a chief god of the Tuatha Dé Danann. What magical possessions did he own?

The Dagda (meaning 'the good god') was the chief of the Tuatha Dé Danann and a god of the earth and fertility. He owned a cauldron from which no one left unsatisfied (one of the four treasures), and a magical club so large it had to be wheeled on a cart — one end killed the living, the other revived the dead.

The Dearg Due in Irish legend was a female vampire figure. What gave rise to her curse?

The Dearg Due ('Red Blood Sucker') is one of Ireland's oldest vampire legends. According to the tale, she was a beautiful woman whose father forced her to marry a cruel man for his wealth. She died of grief and rose from the grave to take revenge on her father and husband. Her grave is said to be near Strongbow's Tree in Waterford.

In Irish folklore, which of the following was considered a death omen?

Irish folklore contains many death omens: a crow (or raven) landing on the roof of a house, a dog howling at night (particularly a red dog), a white hare crossing the path, magpies, a clock stopping, or a picture falling from the wall. The banshee's wail was perhaps the most feared of all death omens.

Deirdre of the Sorrows is one of the Three Sorrows of Irish Storytelling. Her story ends tragically because of what?

At Deirdre's birth it was prophesied she would bring ruin to Ulster. King Conchobar kept her secluded and planned to marry her, but she eloped with the warrior Naoise and his brothers to Scotland. Conchobar lured them back with false promises of safety, then had Naoise killed. Deirdre lived a year in misery before killing herself. It is one of the most beautiful and tragic tales in Irish mythology.

In the tale of Diarmuid and Gráinne, why did Gráinne flee with Diarmuid rather than marry Fionn?

In Tóraíocht Dhiarmada agus Ghráinne, Gráinne was betrothed to the ageing Fionn but fell for the young warrior Diarmuid at their betrothal feast. She placed a geis (a magical binding obligation) on Diarmuid to elope with her that very night, and he had no choice but to comply. The lovers were pursued across Ireland by the Fianna for years.

The Dullahan in Irish folklore is a headless horseman associated with what?

The Dullahan is a headless rider on a black horse who carries his head under his arm. He is associated with death — riding to the home of someone about to die and calling their name, at which point they die instantly. He cannot be stopped and is repelled only by gold. He is considered one of the most frightening figures in Irish folklore.

The Each Uisce (water horse) in Irish folklore is a dangerous creature. What makes it particularly deadly?

The Each Uisce (water horse — pronounced 'akh ishka') is a shape-shifting water creature found in Irish and Scottish folklore. It often appears as a magnificent horse near a lake, and anyone who mounts it finds themselves stuck — the creature then gallops into the water, drowning its rider. It is similar to the Scottish kelpie.

Emain Macha, the ancient capital of Ulster in Irish mythology, corresponds to which modern archaeological site?

Emain Macha, the royal seat of Conchobar mac Nessa and the Red Branch Knights in the Ulster Cycle, corresponds to Navan Fort (An Eamhain Mhacha) near Armagh city. Archaeological excavations have revealed a significant Iron Age ceremonial site there, including a large circular timber building from around 100 BC.

Emer was the wife of Cú Chulainn and was said to possess six gifts. Which of these was NOT listed among them?

Emer's six gifts were: beauty of face, beauty of voice, sweet speech, needlework, wisdom, and chastity. Skill in arms was not among them — though Emer was depicted as formidable and resourceful, her gifts were those prized for a noblewoman in early Irish society. Cú Chulainn undertook great trials to win her from her father Forgall Manach.

The name 'Éire' (Ireland) derives from which goddess of Irish mythology?

The name Éire (Ireland) derives from Ériu, one of the three patron goddesses of Ireland alongside Banba and Fódla. When the Milesians arrived, each goddess asked that the island be named after her. Ériu's name won out, giving us Éire in Irish and Ireland/Erin in English.

In Irish folklore, why is it considered deeply unlucky to disturb a fairy fort (lios or ráth)?

Fairy forts (liosanna or rathanna) — the many circular earthwork enclosures across Ireland — are believed in folklore to be the dwellings of the fairy folk (sídhe). Disturbing them was thought to bring terrible misfortune, illness, or even death. This belief has actually helped preserve many prehistoric ringforts.

What are fairy rings in Irish folklore, and what was believed to happen if you stepped inside one?

Fairy rings are circular patches of darker grass or mushrooms believed in Irish folklore to be the dancing places of the fairies. Stepping inside a fairy ring was said to make you invisible to humans, compel you to dance until exhausted, or trap you in the fairy world where time moves differently.

In Irish folklore, a sudden whirlwind (called a 'fairy blast' or 'sí gaoithe') was believed to indicate what?

A sudden whirlwind or dust devil — called a 'sí gaoithe' (fairy wind) or 'fairy blast' — was believed in Irish folklore to indicate the passage of the fairy host (the Sídhe) moving from one place to another. It was traditional to take off one's hat, say 'God bless them,' and move aside quickly to avoid being struck by the fairies.

The Far Darrig (Fear Dearg) in Irish folklore is a fairy creature known for what?

The Far Darrig (Fear Dearg — 'red man') is a fairy in Irish folklore known for playing dark, macabre practical jokes on humans. He dresses in red and demands hospitality and participation in his pranks. In folklore it is wise to say 'ná déan magadh fúm' (don't mock me) to ward him off.

The Fear Gorta ('Man of Hunger') in Irish folklore was associated with what?

The Fear Gorta ('Man of Hunger') was a thin, emaciated figure in Irish folklore who wandered the land during times of famine. If he knocked on your door and you gave him food, you would be blessed with good fortune; if you refused him, poverty and hunger would follow. He is associated with the Great Famine period in folk memory.

Ferdia and Cú Chulainn fought at a ford for four days at the climax of the Táin. What was their relationship?

Ferdia and Cú Chulainn were foster-brothers who had trained together under the warrior-woman Scáthach. They were the closest of friends — which makes their combat at the ford all the more tragic. Medb persuaded Ferdia to fight Cú Chulainn with false promises and drugged wine. Cú Chulainn killed Ferdia with the Gáe Bulg and mourned him bitterly.

The Fianna, led by Fionn Mac Cumhaill, were a band of elite warriors. What were the requirements to join?

The entry requirements for the Fianna were famously demanding. A candidate had to memorise twelve books of poetry, defend themselves while buried waist-deep against nine warriors throwing spears (without bleeding), run through a wood without breaking a twig or losing a hair, and leap over a branch at shoulder height while in full flight.

In the Fenian Cycle, how did Fionn Mac Cumhaill gain his legendary wisdom?

Fionn (originally called Deimne) gained his wisdom while serving as an apprentice to the poet Finnéces, who had spent seven years trying to catch the Salmon of Knowledge in the River Boyne. When the salmon was finally caught, Fionn burned his thumb while cooking it and sucked the burn to ease the pain — accidentally absorbing all the salmon's wisdom.

Which of the following is NOT one of the four treasures of the Tuatha Dé Danann?

The four treasures of the Tuatha Dé Danann were: the Lia Fáil (Stone of Destiny), the Spear of Lugh (none could withstand it), the Sword of Nuada (no one could escape it), and the Cauldron of the Dagda (no one left it unsatisfied). The Dagda's harp, though magical, is not listed as one of the four treasures.

A Fuath in Irish and Scottish folklore was what type of supernatural being?

A Fuath (meaning 'hatred' or 'dislike') was a malevolent water spirit in Irish and Scottish Gaelic folklore. Fuaths were said to haunt rivers, lakes, and the sea. They could take various forms and were generally hostile to humans. Some accounts describe them as having tails, webbed feet, and no noses.

The Gancanaigh (Gancanagh) in Irish folklore was a male fairy who caused what harm?

The Gancanaigh (meaning 'love talker') was a male fairy in Irish folklore who would appear to lonely women, make them fall hopelessly in love with him, and then vanish — leaving them to pine and waste away. He carried a clay pipe (dudheen) and was associated with the love-struck melancholy he induced.

The Hill of Tara in County Meath was significant as what in Irish mythology and early history?

The Hill of Tara (Teamhair na Rí) in County Meath was the ritual and political seat of the High Kings of Ireland. It is associated with the Lia Fáil, coronation ceremonies, and the mythological origins of Irish kingship. In the 3rd century, the legendary Cormac mac Airt is said to have held court there.

Holy wells (toibreacha beannaithe) in Ireland are associated with what traditions?

Holy wells are a distinctive feature of Irish folk religion, pre-dating Christianity. They are associated with healing (particularly of eyes, skin and joints), pilgrimage rituals called 'patterns' (from 'patron'), and the leaving of offerings or rags (clooties) tied to nearby trees. Ireland has thousands of holy wells.

The festival of Imbolc, celebrated on 1 February, is associated with which goddess?

Imbolc (1 February) is one of the four major Celtic seasonal festivals and is associated with the goddess Brigid, who represents the returning light and spring. It was later Christianised as the feast of St Brigid. Traditional observances include making St Brigid's crosses and leaving a piece of cloth outside for Brigid to bless.

The Leannán Sídhe in Irish folklore was a dangerous fairy who was associated with what?

The Leannán Sídhe ('fairy lover') was a fairy muse who inspired artists, musicians, and poets with extraordinary gifts, but at a terrible price — those under her influence lived brilliantly but briefly, their life force consumed by her. She is similar to the muse concept but with fatal consequences.

The Lebor Gabála Érenn (Book of Invasions) describes how many successive waves of settlers came to Ireland?

The Lebor Gabála Érenn (Book of Invasions), a medieval Irish text synthesising mythology with pseudo-history, describes five (or sometimes six) successive invasions of Ireland: the people of Cessair, the Partholonians, the Nemedians, the Fir Bolg, the Tuatha Dé Danann, and finally the Milesians (the ancestors of the Gaels).

What does a leprechaun traditionally guard in Irish folklore?

Leprechauns are solitary fairy cobblers in Irish folklore, said to hide a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. If you catch one, he must grant you three wishes or reveal his treasure — though he will try to trick you into looking away so he can vanish.

In traditional Irish folklore, what is a leprechaun's occupation?

In traditional Irish folklore, a leprechaun (leipreachán) is a solitary fairy who works as a shoemaker or cobbler. He is often found by the sound of his cobbling, and the sound of a single shoe being made reveals that he has hidden treasure. The image of a leprechaun as a generic lucky charm is largely a modern (and often American-Irish) creation.

The Lia Fáil (Stone of Destiny) is one of the four treasures of the Tuatha Dé Danann. What did it do?

The Lia Fáil (Stone of Destiny) was said to cry out (or roar) when touched by the rightful High King of Ireland. It was brought to Ireland by the Tuatha Dé Danann. The stone still stands on the Hill of Tara in County Meath, though some traditions say the original was brought to Scotland.

The festival of Lúnasa is named after which god of Irish mythology?

Lúnasa (1 August) is named after Lugh, a god of skill, craftsmanship, and the sun in Irish mythology. He was known as Lugh Lámhfhada (Lugh of the Long Arm) for his skill with a spear. Lúnasa festivals traditionally marked the beginning of the harvest season.

Lúnasa, the harvest festival celebrated on 1 August, is associated with which activities?

Lúnasa (1 August) was traditionally celebrated with pilgrimages to hilltops (such as Croagh Patrick), gathering of bilberries (fraochán), horse fairs, and communal gatherings. The Puck Fair in Killorglin and the Ould Lammas Fair in Ballycastle have roots in Lúnasa traditions.

The Second Battle of Mag Tuired was fought between the Tuatha Dé Danann and which enemies?

The Second Battle of Mag Tuired (Cath Maige Tuired) was fought between the Tuatha Dé Danann and the Fomorians. The Tuatha Dé Danann triumphed, with Lugh killing Balor of the Evil Eye. It is one of the most important mythological texts in early Irish literature.

Manannán mac Lir was the god of which domain in Irish mythology?

Manannán mac Lir was the god of the sea and guardian of the Otherworld in Irish mythology. He owned a self-navigating boat (the Wave Sweeper), a magical cloak of invisibility, and pigs that could be slaughtered and eaten but came back to life. He was associated with the Isle of Man.

A merrow's magical cap (cohuleen druith) served what purpose?

The cohuleen druith (enchanted cap or hood) was worn by merrows to enable them to dive through the sea and breathe underwater. If a human stole the cap and hid it, the merrow could not return to the sea and would be trapped on land in human form. This was a common plot device in merrow tales, similar to the selkie's skin.

A merrow in Irish folklore is a creature resembling what?

Merrows (or murúcha in Irish) are sea-dwelling creatures similar to mermaids — human above the waist, fish below — found in Irish folklore. Female merrows are beautiful and may fall in love with human men; male merrows are said to be ugly with green teeth and hair. Merrows wore a magical cap (cohuleen druith) that allowed them to swim to and from the sea.

In the tale of Midir and Étaín, what form does Étaín take after being turned into a fly by Midir's jealous wife?

In Tochmarc Étaíne (The Wooing of Étaín), Midir's jealous wife Fuamnach transforms Étaín into a fly. After being blown about for years, she falls into a cup of wine drunk by the wife of Étar and is reborn as a human. She is later sought by both Midir and the High King Eochaid in one of the most complex tales in Irish mythology.

The tradition of St John's Eve bonfires (23 June) in Ireland is connected to which ancient festival?

St John's Eve bonfires (Oíche Fhéile Eoin, 23 June) are a surviving tradition of midsummer fire festivals that pre-date Christianity. Bonfires were lit on hilltops to welcome the sun at its peak, and people jumped over them for luck and to purify themselves. The tradition was absorbed into the Christian feast of St John the Baptist.

In Irish folk belief, what did it mean if a neighbour came to borrow fire or a coal on May Morning (1 May)?

In Irish folk belief, giving fire, salt, milk, or water on May Morning (Bealtaine) could allow a neighbour to transfer the luck — and particularly the milk yield — of your cows to themselves. It was considered extremely bad luck to give such things on that day, and there are many stories of witches using this method to steal butter.

The Morrigan in Irish mythology is primarily associated with what?

The Morrigan (meaning 'great queen' or 'phantom queen') is a goddess of war, fate, and death in Irish mythology. She can appear as a crow on the battlefield and is associated with destiny, often foretelling doom. She appears prominently in the Ulster Cycle, particularly in relation to Cú Chulainn.

The Mythological Cycle of Irish literature primarily concerns what subjects?

The Mythological Cycle (also called the Divine Cycle) concerns the successive invasions of Ireland according to the Lebor Gabála Érenn (Book of Invasions), and the stories of the divine inhabitants of Ireland — particularly the Tuatha Dé Danann and their battles with the Fomorians. It includes tales like the Children of Lir and The Wooing of Étaín.

King Nuada of the Tuatha Dé Danann had what characteristic that temporarily disqualified him from kingship?

Nuada Airgetlám (Nuada of the Silver Hand) lost his hand at the First Battle of Mag Tuired. Under Brehon law, a king had to be physically perfect, so he was temporarily replaced by Bres. His physician Dian Cécht fashioned him a silver replacement hand, and later his son Miach grew back a real one.

In the Fenian Cycle, Oisín was taken to Tír na nÓg by Niamh of the Golden Hair. What happened when he returned to Ireland?

When Oisín finally returned to Ireland after what felt like three years in Tír na nÓg, he found it transformed — the Fianna were long dead and Christianity had arrived. Niamh had warned him not to touch Irish soil. When his horse stumbled and he fell to the ground, he instantly became an ancient, blind old man. He is said to have met St Patrick and told him the stories of the Fianna.

The Irish mythological Otherworld (Tír na nÓg, Mag Mell, etc.) is generally depicted as located where?

The Irish mythological Otherworld is typically depicted as existing either underground (beneath fairy mounds) or across the sea to the west — often accessible through water. It is a realm of eternal youth, beauty, and happiness, though it can be dangerous for mortals who visit.

A Peiste (or Piast) in Irish mythology is what type of creature?

A Peiste (or Piast — meaning 'beast' or 'worm') is a serpentine lake or sea monster in Irish mythology. Many Irish lakes are said to harbour a peiste. The most famous is the Ollphéist said to have carved the River Shannon when St Patrick chased it across Ireland. The Loch Ness Monster story has parallels with Irish peiste legends.

The Púca (Pooka) is a shape-shifting creature in Irish folklore. In what form does it most commonly appear?

The Púca (Pooka) is a shape-shifting spirit that most commonly appears as a dark or black horse, though it can also take the form of a goat, rabbit, or human. It is generally considered a mischievous rather than purely malevolent spirit. Puck Fair in Killorglin, Co. Kerry, is believed to be associated with the Púca.

In Irish folklore, the Púca is described as a shape-shifter. Which of these forms has it NOT traditionally been recorded as taking?

The Púca (Pooka) is traditionally recorded as taking the forms of a black horse, goat, rabbit, dog, and sometimes a human — but not a dragon. The dragon is not a traditional figure in Irish mythology or folklore, which tends to feature lake monsters (peiste/piast) rather than fire-breathing dragons.

Queen Medb of Connacht initiated the events of the Táin Bó Cúailnge. Why?

Queen Medb initiated the Táin because she and her husband Ailill compared their wealth and found they were equal in everything except that Ailill owned the magnificent White Bull of Ai, while Medb had no equivalent. She set out to acquire the Brown Bull of Cooley to restore parity — an origin story that underlines the importance of honour and status in early Irish society.

The Red Branch Knights (Craobh Rua) were the elite warriors of which king in the Ulster Cycle?

The Red Branch Knights (also called the Knights of the Red Branch or Ulaid) were the elite warrior caste of King Conchobar mac Nessa of Ulster. Cú Chulainn was their greatest champion. They were named after the Red Branch House, where their weapons and trophies were stored at Emain Macha (Navan Fort, Co. Armagh).

The ancient Irish festival of Samhain, celebrated on 1 November, is regarded as the origin of which modern celebration?

Samhain (1 November) was one of the four major Celtic seasonal festivals marking the end of the harvest and the beginning of winter. It was believed that the boundary between the living and the dead grew thin, allowing spirits to roam. It is widely regarded as the origin of Halloween, and many Halloween traditions — jack-o'-lanterns, costumes, bonfires — have roots in Samhain customs.

Scáthach was a warrior woman who trained Cú Chulainn in the martial arts. Where did she live?

Scáthach ('the shadowy one') was a legendary warrior woman and trainer of heroes who lived on the Isle of Skye in Scotland (or sometimes described as a phantom island). Cú Chulainn travelled there to train under her, learning feats including the devastating Gáe Bulg spear technique. She also taught Ferdiad, who later became Cú Chulainn's foster-brother and opponent.

What is a selkie in Irish and Scottish folklore?

Selkies are mythological creatures that appear as seals in the sea but can shed their skin to take human form on land. Selkie stories often involve a human hiding the selkie's skin, trapping the creature in human form. If they recover their skin, they must return to the sea. The legend is found across Ireland, Scotland, and the Northern Isles.

What are the sídhe in Irish mythology?

The sídhe (also spelled sí) are the fairy mounds or earthen hills where the Tuatha Dé Danann retreated after their defeat by the Milesians. The word can refer to both the mounds themselves and the supernatural beings who inhabit them. Many surviving ringforts and prehistoric mounds are considered sídhe.

The Sluagh in Irish folklore were what kind of beings?

The Sluagh (from Irish 'host' or 'crowd') were the spirits of the restless dead — souls too sinful for heaven, hell, or purgatory — who flew in groups or 'hosts' across the night sky, particularly from the west. They were said to try to carry off souls of the dying, so it was traditional to keep west-facing windows closed when someone was near death.

A St Brigid's Cross is traditionally made from what material?

St Brigid's Cross is traditionally made by weaving rushes or straw into a distinctive four-armed cross shape. They are made on St Brigid's Day (1 February/Imbolc) and hung in homes and byres to protect against fire and evil. The custom blends pre-Christian Brigid goddess traditions with Christian practice.

The Táin Bó Cúailnge (The Cattle Raid of Cooley) is centred on a war begun over what?

The Táin Bó Cúailnge begins because Queen Medb of Connacht covets the Brown Bull of Cooley (the Donn Cuailnge), which is the only bull in Ireland that matches her husband Ailill's prized White Bull. When her attempts to borrow it fail, she raises an army to take it by force — triggering Cú Chulainn's heroic solo defence of Ulster.

What is Tír na nÓg in Irish mythology?

Tír na nÓg ('Land of the Young') is the Irish mythological Otherworld — a realm of eternal youth and happiness. In the most famous tale, the warrior-poet Oisín is taken there by Niamh of the Golden Hair, only to find that centuries have passed when he returns to Ireland.

Who are the Tuatha Dé Danann?

The Tuatha Dé Danann ('People of the goddess Danu') are a supernatural race in Irish mythology. They are the divine inhabitants of Ireland before the Gaels arrived, and are associated with the sídhe (fairy mounds) after their defeat at the Battle of Mag Tuired.

The Imram Brain (Voyage of Bran) is an early Irish tale about a warrior who sets sail after being given what?

The Voyage of Bran (Imram Brain) opens with Bran mac Febal hearing wonderful music and falling asleep. On waking he finds a silver branch with white apple blossoms beside him. A mysterious woman appears and describes the wonders of the Otherworld islands, inspiring him to set sail with 27 companions to find the Land of Women.

What was the 'will-o'-the-wisp' (tine sídhe or Jack-o'-lantern) believed to be in Irish folklore?

The will-o'-the-wisp (tine sídhe — fairy fire) was a mysterious light seen over bogs and marshes, believed in Irish folklore to be a fairy light or the spirit of a trickster who, unable to enter heaven or hell, was condemned to wander the earth leading travellers astray. It was considered very dangerous to follow.

The Wren Boys tradition takes place on which day?

Wren Boys (Lá an Dreoilín) go door to door on St Stephen's Day, 26 December, singing and collecting money, traditionally carrying a dead (now usually fake) wren on a decorated bush or pole. The custom is still celebrated in parts of Munster and Connacht, particularly in County Kerry.