Celtic Myth: Gods and Heroes

Vocabulary flashcards based on key terms and concepts from the 'Celtic Myth: Gods and Heroes' lecture.

Celtic Polytheism

A belief system practiced by the Celts, characterized by the worship of multiple deities, possibly including animism.

Tuatha Dé Danann

Supernatural beings in Celtic mythology representing pre-Christian gods, who reside in the Otherworld.

Cattle Raid of Cooley

A central tale in the Ulster Cycle, involving a battle between Queen Medb and Cú Chulainn over a prized brown bull.

Cú Chulainn

A legendary hero of the Ulster Cycle, originally named Sétanta, known for his incredible prowess in battle.

The Book of Invasions

An 11th-century text that combines Christian pseudo-history with Celtic mythology, detailing six generations of invasions in Ireland.

Aes sídhe

The later representation of the Tuatha Dé Danann, depicted as fairies or elves who guard the land and live in underground forts.

Scáthach

A warrior woman in Scottish mythology who trained Cú Chulainn.

The Ulster Cycle

A collection of medieval Irish heroic legends centered around the kingdom of Ulster and its champion Cú Chulainn.

Battle of Magh Tuireadh

Two significant battles in Celtic mythology where the Tuatha Dé Danann fought against the Fir Bolg and Fomorians.

Tam Lin

A character from Scottish folklore who was captured by fairies and eventually freed by his love, Janet.

Fir Bolg

A group of mythological people in Irish folklore, defeated by the Tuatha Dé Danann in the battles for Ireland.

Medb (Maeve)

The powerful queen of Connacht involved in the Cattle Raid of Cooley, known for her ambition and desire for wealth.

Connchobar mac Nessa

The king of Ulster during the time of Cú Chulainn, known for his leadership and role in Ulster Cycle tales.

Milesians

The group representing the ancestors of the Irish in mythology, who ultimately defeat the Tuatha Dé Danann and take over Ireland.

Lugh

A god associated with truth and kingship of the Tuatha Dé Danann, known for his role in defeating Bres.

Fomorians

Another supernatural race in Celtic mythology, often characterized as chaotic and monstrous beings.