No, they’re not the same thing. But Irish mythology and Celtic mythology are related—uncovering how may reveal even bigger truths about these two storytelling traditions.
Author Archives: I. E. (IrishMyths.com)
The Celtic Origins of May Day
Did the flower-filled festival of May Day originate with the Celtic fire festival of Beltane? Does the maypole actually represent a sacred tree? You’re about to find out.
The Pagan Origins of St. Patrick’s Day
Why is St. Patrick’s Day celebrated on March 17th? Turns out there’s much more to the story than most people realize.
Is The Banshees of Inisherin Based on Irish Mythology?
Uncover potential hidden references to Irish mythology and folklore in the award-winning 2022 Irish film The Banshees of Inisherin
Book Giveaway: Saint Patrick in Your Pocket
Introducing the latest book in my Celtic Pocket Guides series, Saint Patrick in Your Pocket: 20 Questions With the Apostle of Ireland
5 Imbolc Rituals for Welcoming Spring [Video]
Here’s how to celebrate Imbolc like an ancient Celt according to Gaelic history, mythology, and folklore. While many modern pagans celebrate their own iterations of Imbolc, this video is an attempt at getting back to the festival’s roots.
The 10 Most Powerful Druids From Irish Mythology
Who are some famous druids? In historical accounts, ancient Celtic druids are rarely named—merely alluded to. In Irish mythology, druids are important characters with names and motivations (be them benevolent or nefarious).
Whom Do Banshees Visit? Visitation Rites of the Banshee [Video]
Whom do banshees visit? Which families do they haunt? Turns out Irish folklore severely limits which households banshees can hover over and howl by.
Physical and Sonic Characteristics of the Banshee [Video]
What do banshees look like? What do banshees sound like? While pop culture interpretations of the banshee typically paint her as a grotesque, shrieking she-demon, Irish folklore tells a much more nuanced story.
The Definition and Etymology of Banshee [Video]
You are likely already familiar with Ireland’s most infamous shrieking spirit. But what exactly is a banshee? Is it a ghost? A spirit? A wraith? A demon? A fairy? In a word, yes. The banshee is all of those things, and so much more.