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.
Category Archives: Definitions
Who Were Ireland’s First Inhabitants?
Pop culture tells us that Ireland was always teeming with ancient Celts. But archaeology, and even Irish mythology, tell different stories about Ireland’s prehistoric inhabitants.
Where Did Celtic Culture Originate?
In their heyday, the ancient Celts occupied territories across Europe. But where did the Celts come from originally? And in which direction(s) did Celtic culture spread?
Who Were the Ancient Celts?
Uncover the culture behind the kilt in this introduction to the ancient Celts, Europe’s most misunderstood and misrepresented ancient peoples.
They Might Be Giants: 10 Colossal Celts of Irish Myth & Legend
It’s a tall tale as old as time: warrior and the giant. But who are the most famous giants from Irish mythology? And are they *really* giants, or wizards in disguise?
Here Be Dragons: 5 Kaiju-Sized Monsters From Irish Mythology
Do Irish myths feature dragons and other mountain-sized monsters? Here are 5 contenders for Irish mythology’s biggest baddie: the oillpheist, the Cata, the Muirdris (a.k.a. Sinach), Ellén Trechend, and Aillén.
The Mythology of Samhain: 6 Stories That Give Samhain Added Significance
Did you know that Samhain served as the backdrop for many of Irish mythology’s greatest battles and events? Here are 6 Samhain myths for celebrating the year’s spookiest season.
A Brief History of Samhain: When (and Where) Did Halloween’s Celtic Predecessor Get Its Start?
No history of Halloween would be complete without a history of Samhain. Uncover the archaeological and historical evidence behind Samhain’s ancient Celtic origins.
What Is Samhain? (Definition and Etymology)
What in the Halloween is the definition of Samhain? Where did the word come from? And why did the ancient Celts decide to celebrate Samhain on the 31st night of October?
What Is a Banshee? The Mythic Origins of Ireland’s Most Infamous Shrieking Spirit
A brief biography of Irish folklore’s most frightening fay, the banshee. Learn why this vociferous, vatic vocalist haunts the households of those about to perish.