Celtic Mythology
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Manannán: The Enigmatic Sea Deity Manannán mac Lir, commonly referred to as simply Manannán, holds a prominent place in Irish mythology and beyond. Known in different cultures as Manann Mac Lir (Irish), Mac y Leir (Scottish), and fab Llyr (Welsh)—which translates to “Son of the Sea”—he is depicted as a critical figure not just in…
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Rhiannon holds a significant position in the foundational prose and mythology of Britain, particularly in the Mabinogi—a collection of narratives that were documented in the 12th and 13th centuries, stemming from earlier oral traditions by Welsh authors of the medieval era. As a prominent figure, Rhiannon is recognized as the Celtic goddess of the moon,…
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Aengus, a prominent and enigmatic figure among the Tuatha Dé Danann, represents a mystical race that journeyed to Ireland long ago, bringing with them highly developed culture and artistry. Over time, these beings ascended to the ranks of deities; their portrayal of divinity differs significantly from modern interpretations familiar to contemporary audiences. The name Aengus…
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Overview Arawn is a prominent figure in Welsh mythology, known as the lord of Annwn, the Otherworld found in the Mabinogi. Renowned for his exceptional hunting skills and magical prowess, particularly in shapeshifting, Arawn’s most notable association is with Pwyll, the Lord of Dyfed. Etymology The name Arawn is thought to have roots in Welsh,…
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Sulis stands out as one of the more notable goddesses of the Celtic pantheon, predominantly worshipped at her solitary shrine located at a thermal spring in the southwest of England. Known to the Romans as Aquae Sulis, this site served as both a spa and a temple dedicated to Sulis Minerva, her Romano-Celtic incarnation. The…
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In Irish folklore, Bodb Derg, also known as Bodhbh Dearg, stands out as a significant figure, being either the son of Eochaid Garb or the Dagda himself, and later taking on the mantle as King of the Tuatha Dé Danann. His name, potentially stemming from a cognate of “bádhbh,” translates to “Red Crow,” showcasing a…
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Epona, a revered goddess in Celtic mythology, is intrinsically linked to horses, as her name suggests; “epos” translates to “horse” in Celtic, while the suffix “-ona” implies “on.” She serves as the protector of mares and their foals. The earliest references to this Gallic equine deity can be traced back to the writings of Juvenal…
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Manannán mac Lir: The Enigmatic Sea God of Irish Mythology Manannán mac Lir, often referred to simply as Manann, is a prominent figure in Irish mythology and also has a presence in Welsh traditions, where he is known as Manawydan. Renowned as the “son of the sea,” Manannán mac Lir embodies numerous attributes, including being…
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The Burning Shepherd: A Tale of Fate and Greed Deep in the plains of Strijbeek in Noord-Brabant, a chilling sight emerges at night – the spectral figure of a burning shepherd. This eerie figure is the unfortunate Ward, a shepherd whose tale is steeped in local folklore. On one sweltering day, as the sun beat…
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The Morrigan: An Exploration of Ireland’s Multifaceted Goddess The mystique surrounding the Morrigan is woven through a rich array of myths and symbols, establishing her as a formidable figure within Irish mythology. As we delve into her complex symbolism and explore the narratives that shape her identity, we embark on a journey toward understanding the…
