GEMMA GRANT continues her series on the myths and legends of Ireland

 

It was promising to be the highlight of the year. A grandiose affair, with all the nobles and Fianna of Ireland gathered under one roof. Great chieftains, heading up clans of mighty warriors, all eager to impress the great lord himself, Fionn of the Fianna.

Poets, bards, Druids, visiting dignitaries from Ireland and beyond, rubbed shoulders with the sons of Irish and foreign kings. Around the great banqueting hall, seating arrangements at the fort were in place. Those of high rank sat next or near to Fionn himself. Those of lesser rank squeezed into places, hoping to catch the eye of the great lord, Fionn, son of Cumhall. Wives and children were suitably arranged, according to the status of their husbands.

Music, poetry, and storytelling of the finest, mixed easily with the best of food and drink, courtesy of the gracious host himself. There was none who could entertain better than Fionn. His generosity was legendary and on this occasion, he was eager to live up to his valued reputation. He sat proudly with his nearest and dearest, eager to show off his family to his guests.

To his right sat his son Oisín and his pride and joy, Oscar, son of Oisín. Close at hand was Mac Lugach of the Terrible Hand, son of his daughter, Lugach. As a boy Fionn advised Mac Lugach never to meddle with a fool, to be gentle with women, servants, poets and the common people. Mac Lugach developed into an accomplished musician with the great strength, necessary to be considered one of Fionn’s closest compatriots.

Also at the top table sat Diarmuid Ua Duibhne, of the Love Spot. Diarmuid’s unquestionable good looks would eventually bring him into conflict and death with his lord and mentor, Fionn.
Another warrior of note, was Caoilte Mac Ronan, the fastest man in Ireland and loyal servant to Fionn.

To one side of the great hall sat Goll Mac Morna of Clan Morna. One time leader of the Fianna, having killed Fionn’s father for leadership, he now served, somewhat begrudgingly, under Fionn’s command.
Goll of the One Eye, was one of the most powerful of all the Fianna. His mighty clan still disputed their right to lead the Fianna. It was an open sore that often erupted into conflict between the clans. However, for now tensions were laid aside as warriors mingled freely, catching up on stories and drinking and eating their fill.

As always, accompanying his brother sat Conan Maol (the bald) Mac Morna. Proud, boastful, and buffoonish. Conan was often to the fore in starting rows and arguments. His insults were legendary, but fortunate for him, often received with good humour by those who knew of his clownish ways.

Around the great hall passed the house servants with platters of food and jewelled drinking goblets of the finest gold and silver. No sooner had a goblet been drunk to the lees, than it was immediately refilled. So intoxicating was the liquor, that soon merriment and high spirits overtook the assembled warriors.

Cutting through the noise of entertainment came a loud and authoritative voice. Fionn’s man servant had an important announcement to make. The guests fell silent as the servant introduced to the packed hall Fergus Truelips, Fionn’s poet and the Fianna’s.

Continue reading in this week’s Ireland’s Own