Cath Maige Tuired, British Library, Harley MS 5280, f. 68r. This folio contains the account of Bríg mourning her son Rúadán after he is killed by Goibniu. Brigid is among the most prominent figures in contemporary Irish Paganism and is often characterised as a goddess associated with poetry, healing, smithcraft, fire, fertility, livestock, sacred wells, … Continue reading Brigid: What Do the Early Irish Sources Actually Tell Us?
The Mórrígan is often introduced as an Irish goddess of war and death, accompanied by crows and closely associated with the battlefield. She is also frequently described as a triple goddess alongside Badb and Macha. These familiar descriptions have roots in the medieval literature, but they leave out much of what the stories actually say … Continue reading The Mórrígan: Battle, Prophecy and Sovereignty in Irish Tradition
Among the gods of medieval Irish tradition, few are as memorable as the Dagda. He is powerful enough to help shape the outcome of the Second Battle of Mag Tuired, possesses extraordinary objects including a cauldron and a magical harp, and is closely connected with Brú na Bóinne. Yet the stories also allow him to … Continue reading The Dagda: The Good God of the Irish
If you spend any time reading about Irish mythology, it does not take long before you encounter the Tuatha Dé Danann. Lugh, the Dagda, Brigid, Nuada, Ogma, Goibniu and the Morrígan are among the best-known figures associated with them, and today they are frequently described as the “gods of ancient Ireland”. That is a useful … Continue reading Who Were the Tuatha Dé Danann?
Explore the Cailleach and Brigid through the changing seasons, their associations with winter and spring, and the traditions surrounding these powerful figures
Explore the Mórrígan through Irish mythology, her associations with sovereignty, prophecy and battle, and her place in contemporary practice.