Learn all about Irish Mythology in this comprehensive and engaging online course.
This online course about Irish Mythology is a comprehensive journey through the rich tapestry of Ireland’s mythological traditions and legendary past, spanning from ancient tales of gods and heroes to the semi-historical accounts of kings.
From the tribal systems of early Irish society to the historical kings of the 7th and 8th centuries, learners will encounter gods like Lúgh and the Morrigan, heroes like Cú Chulainn and Finn McCool, and kings like Conchobhar and Mongán.
Each section features detailed narratives, key figures, and lesson outcomes that encourage understanding, recognition, discussion, and analysis of Ireland’s mythic and historical evolution.
Whether exploring the divine invasions of the Tuatha Dé Danann, the cattle raids of Ulster, or the poetic wisdom of the Fianna, this course offers a vibrant lens into Ireland’s past and its lasting cultural resonance.
Through engaging lessons, learners will uncover the origins of Ireland’s mythic landscape, the exploits of its greatest heroes, and the legacy of its royal figures, while examining how these narratives blend history, spirituality, and imagination.
Designed for enthusiasts of mythology, history, and Irish culture, the course connects ancient traditions to modern interpretations, revealing the enduring power of Ireland’s storytelling heritage.
This course delves into the five major cycles of Irish lore—Introduction to Irish Mythology, The Mythological Cycle, The Ulster Cycle, The Fenian Cycle, and The Cycle of Kings—offering an in-depth exploration of the stories, characters, and cultural contexts that have shaped Ireland’s identity.
The course is structured into multiple video lessons across five sections, each building on the last to provide a chronological and thematic progression.
What You'll Get:
- Lifetime Access to a Mythic Adventure: Immerse yourself in five expertly crafted video sections—Introduction to Irish Mythology, The Mythological Cycle, The Ulster Cycle, The Fenian Cycle, and The Cycle of Kings—with unlimited access to lessons and resources, available on any device at your own pace.
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Unforgettable Stories of Ireland’s Legends: Meet iconic figures like Lúgh, the Morrigan, Cú Chulainn, Finn McCool, and royal heroes like Conchobhar, while exploring the divine invasions, epic battles, and poetic wisdom that shaped Ireland’s identity.
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A Deep Connection to Irish Heritage: Gain a profound understanding of the five major cycles of Irish lore, blending history, spirituality, and imagination, and discover how these ancient narratives resonate in modern culture.
No prior knowledge required—just a curiosity for Ireland’s vibrant past.
Enrol now and gain instant access to this unparalleled course.
Perfect for history enthusiasts, heritage seekers, or anyone eager to connect with their roots!
What's Included?
Section 1: Introduction to Irish Mythology
This foundational section introduces learners to the spiritual and cultural underpinnings of Irish mythology. Beginning with early Irish society and the tribal systems described by scholars like D.A. Binchy, it progresses through the old religion of the Druids, the spiritual beliefs of septs, and the pagan lifestyle of the ancient Irish. Learners will uncover the roots of Irish mythic thought, the interplay of kinship and land, and the divine figures who set the stage for Ireland’s legendary history.
Section 2: The Mythological Cycle
This section dives into the Mythological Cycle, chronicling the successive waves of divine and human settlers in Ireland as recounted in the Lebor Gabala Eireann. The section also delves into specific tales like the Tuatha Dé Danann’s arrival, their transformation into fairy folk (Daoine Sidhe), and Oisín’s journey to Tír na nÓg. Additional lessons examine the Fomorians, place-name lore, Yeats’ The Stolen Child, and the Áenach Tailteann festival’s revival. Learners will trace Ireland’s mythic origins and the shift from divine rule to human settlement.
- Key Topics: Mythic invasions, Tuatha Dé Danann, fairy beliefs, Fomorians, place-name lore, Áenach Tailteann
Section 3: The Ulster Cycle
The Ulster Cycle section focuses on the heroic tales of Ulaidh's warriors known as The Red Branch Knights, centred around the epic Táin Bó Cúailnge (The Cattle Raid of Cooley) and the legendary Cú Chulainn. It begins with an overview of the cycle’s tales, then explores key stories like the Pangs of Ulster curse, the Quarrel of the Two Pig Keepers, and the births of King Conchobhar and Cú Chulainn. The section follows Cú Chulainn’s life—his naming, training with Scáthach, defense in The Táin, and tragic death—highlighting themes of bravery, fate, and loyalty. Learners will engage with the Red Branch's martial ethos and the interplay of human and supernatural forces in these gripping narratives.
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Key Topics: The Táin, Pangs of Ulster, Cú Chulainn’s life, Conchobhar’s kingship, heroism and tragedy
Section 4: The Fenian Cycle
The Fenian Cycle celebrates the adventures of Finn McCool (Fionn mac Cumhaill) and his warrior band, the Fianna, emphasizing nature, wisdom, and camaraderie. This section introduces the cycle, clarifies naming variations (Fionn/Finn/Fianna), and details the Fianna’s elite status. It explores Finn’s life—his birth, the Salmon of Knowledge, his advice to warriors, and landscape-creating feats like the Giant’s Causeway. Additional lessons cover Oisín’s journey to Tír na nÓg, the Acallam na Senórach (Dialogue of the Sages), and debates over the cycle’s historical basis. Learners will discover the Fianna’s poetic legacy and Finn’s enduring mark on Ireland’s mythology and geography.
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Key Topics: Finn McCool, Na Fianna, Salmon of Knowledge, Tír na nÓg, Giant’s Causeway, Acallam na Senórach, history vs. fable
Section 5: The Cycle of Kings
The Cycle of Kings shifts focus to Ireland’s legendary and semi-historical rulers, blending myth with early history. It begins with an introduction to the cycle, followed by lessons on ancient royal sites (e.g., Tara), inauguration rituals, and tales of kings like Labraid Loingseach (with horse’s ears) and Mongán mac Fiachna. Learners will investigate the rituals, personalities, and legacies of Ireland’s royal figures, exploring how these stories bridge mythology and documented history.
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Key Topics: Kingship traditions, royal sites, inauguration rituals, Labraid Loingseach, Mongán, 7th–8th-century kings