Celtic Mythology
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Growing up in Ireland, I was often enchanted by the stories of Cú Chulainn that filled my childhood evenings. The vibrant realm of Irish mythology provided a rich tapestry of legends, and Cú Chulainn was a standout figure for me. The thought of a youthful hero taking on fierce armies and mystical beings from the…
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This year’s autumn equinox takes place on September 22, marking a significant moment in the Pagan calendar known as Mabon. This celebration is a tribute to the conclusion of the harvest season and a chance to appreciate our natural surroundings and the spirits that inhabit them. Mabon represents a moment of perfect equilibrium, where day…
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Ireland, a small island teeming with culture and ancient tales, boasts a rich tapestry of folklore that has been preserved through generations via oral storytelling. Many of these captivating narratives are closely tied to specific landscapes, often used to explain the origins of certain local features. The Enchanted Tale of the Children of Lir Deep…
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Belenus, revered as the Celtic god of fire, stands out as an essential deity in ancient Celtic worship across various regions. His significance is underscored by attributes linked to radiance and healing, portraying him as a symbol of brightness associated with renewal and fertility. Celebrated particularly during pastoral activities and the Beltane festival, Belenus represents…
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Background Balor was a formidable leader among the Formorians, a dark and sinister race known for their brutal oppression of the Tuatha De Danann. His life came to a tragic end at the hands of his grandson, Lugh, during the foretold Battle of Moytura. Balor’s sheer size was so immense that his falling body caused…
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Scáthach: The Fearsome Warrior Queen of Ancient Irish Mythology Scáthach, a mythic warrior renowned for her teachings, played a vital role in shaping the legendary hero Cú Chulainn’s fighting skills. Revered in Irish mythology, she is often referred to as “The Shadow.” Hailing from a formidable castle on the Isle of Skye, Scáthach dedicated her…
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In the legend of the Tuatha De Danann, a group of deities believed to stem from the goddess Danu, we learn about notable figures among the Celtic pantheon. Among Danu and Dagda’s offspring was Ogma, the most admired of their sons, known for his remarkable gift of poetry and writing. He was often portrayed with…
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Background Aoife, known as “The Bright One,” was the offspring of Ailill of Aran and the protégée of Bodhbh Dearg, the sovereign of the Tuatha Dé Danann. She was also the younger sibling of Aobh, who had been the first spouse of Lir from SídhFionnachaidh. The Saga of Aoife Following the death of Lir’s first…
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Banba’s Crown, the highest point of Ireland’s mainland, is situated at Malin Head in Inishowen, County Donegal. This location is steeped in mythology, as its name is derived from the goddess Banba, one of the deities in Irish folklore. Along with her sisters, Ériu and Fódla, Banba is said to have been a protector of…
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Medb: The Enigmatic Queen of Connacht Overview In the realm of Celtic mythology, Medb stands as the formidable Queen of Connacht, characterized as a central antagonist in the Ulster Cycle. With her extraordinary cunning and strength, she reigned over Western Ireland, exerting considerable influence over the island. Her tumultuous interactions with her former spouse, Conchobar…
