Well, a significant theme is the relationship between humans and the supernatural. In many old Irish legends stories, we see humans interacting with gods, fairies, and other magical beings. Family and loyalty also play important roles. For example, in the story of the Children of Lir, their loyalty to each other despite their transformation is a key aspect. And of course, there is often a theme of adventure, as the characters embark on quests and journeys filled with danger and discovery.
The story of Cú Chulainn is a classic old Irish legend. Cú Chulainn was a heroic figure with extraordinary combat skills. His feats in battle and his code of honor are central to the story. There are also stories about the Tuatha Dé Danann, the mythical race in Irish lore who were said to possess great magic and power.
The 'Banshee' is extremely popular. It has been part of Irish folklore for centuries. Its wail is a sign of impending doom, and many people claim to have heard it in areas with a long history of tragedy or near ancient burial sites.
One famous Irish urban legend is the 'Banshee'. It is said to be a female spirit whose wailing warns of a death in the family. The sound of her high - pitched scream is often heard near old castles or in lonely areas at night.
They often involve magic. For example, in many stories there are magical creatures like fairies, banshees or selkies. These elements add a sense of wonder.
The theme of fate often plays a role. Characters are sometimes fated to certain things, like the long - awaited return in 'The Voyage of Bran'. And of course, there are themes of good versus evil. The heroes in these stories usually fight against some form of evil, whether it's a tyrannical king or a malevolent sorcerer.
Characteristics? Well, many Old Irish short stories are centered around heroic figures. These heroes often have to overcome great challenges, whether it be in battle or in some sort of magical quest. The language used is often very descriptive, painting vivid pictures of the settings, from the green hills to the ancient castles. Also, family and clan loyalty is a common theme, and the stories are often used to pass down cultural values from one generation to the next. For instance, in stories like 'The Cattle Raid of Cooley', the importance of protecting one's tribe's property is emphasized. The stories also sometimes incorporate elements of the supernatural, like prophetic dreams or enchanted objects, which add an air of mystery and wonder.
The legend of the Nahual is also quite frightening. A Nahual is a person who can transform into an animal, often for malicious purposes. In some tales, they use their powers to cause harm to others, and it's hard to tell who might be a Nahual in disguise.
One main theme is magic. The fairies in these stories possess all kinds of magical powers, like turning people into animals or creating illusions. Another theme is nature. The fairies are closely related to nature, living in forests, near rivers or in mounds. For example, in many stories, the fairies' power is connected to the seasons and the growth of plants.