Dolmens, Barrows, Cairn ? They were built millennia ago to transport the human memory and imagination from one world to another and, in so many different ways, they still do. Join Chris on a personal exploration of these liminal places as she considers not only their archaeological importance but the impact they can still have…
Tag: Otherworld
Chris Ramble 20 ~ What is so special about the Cath Maige Tuired?
The settling of the The Tuatha Dé Danann in Ireland and their struggle against the mysterious Fomoire, form the central strand of the ancient Irish Mythological Story Cycle. Join Chris as she explores why this great cycle of stories might just be the ‘Jewel in the Crown’ of Irish mythology. If you explore further into…
The Cath Maige Tuired, for a wider audience: Part 6~ Among the Fomoire
The battle of Moytura is better known as the Mythological story cycle. This audio re-telling is especially designed for, but not limited to, a younger audience. We find out what the Fomoire king , Elaha thinks of his son’s actions among the Dé Danann and we hear the disturbing tale of Eithliu, daughter of Balor,…
Audio stories 5: The Adventures of Nera~ A Rathcroghan story.
This is probably one of the best – ever- Halloween (Samhain) stories. During this Rathcroghan feast, given by Ailill and Medb, Nera, has to face up to his boastful words and undertake a terrifying quest, through the Samhain-dark land and into another world and time. It is an remscéla adventure that will ensure Nera’s role…
A Conversation with Sana Malik
Sana Malik grew up in Pakistan, and has been a widely travelled humanitarian aid-worker. Ireland is now her spiritual home. Join Chris and Sana as they discuss two favourite Irish stories, ‘The Voyage of Bran’ and the ‘Story of Sinann’, exploring ‘Silver Branch Perception’ and the relatabilty of mythology to the voyages of life. Sana…
Chris’ Ramble 17: Once Upon a Myth
What makes a story mythic? Why have so many cultures gathered, protected and passed on mythological stories? And, why do they matter today? Join Chris as she takes a personal look at myth and how much mythology still has relevance. Links for this episode
Táin bó Fraích: A version of the tale (with notes)
In a recent conversation with, archeologist and historian, Daniel Curley we discussed the Táin bó Fraích: in some detail. It is a fascinating but, sometimes, complex story. I thought it might be useful to have a readable vession avilable that is still closely based on an earlier direct translation of the text. I do hope…
A conversation with Professor Lisa Bitel
Lisa Bitel is a Professor of Religion and a Medieval historian specializing in Britain and Ireland. and is the author of her new book ‘Otherworld’. Join Chris and Lisa as they explore some favourite stories and discuss how best to contintinue the transmission of these wonderful tales, from the deep past, to an audience today….
Otherworld ~ Nine tales of early Irish literature by Lisa M. Bitel
I am so glad to have found this book! Lisa Bitel includes nine stories, each of which have a connection to the ever-present Otherworld of memory and imagination. Many of these stories are not well known outside the source translations and they are also some of my favourites, all well worth the telling. Lisa tackles…
Exploring Samhain: A glimpse into the past
The festival of Samhain, is one that has been celebrated, in one form or another, for a very long time. In the early Irish stories it was a time for gatherings and feasting. But how has it changed in more recent times? Join Chris as she explores The ‘Schools’ Folklore collection” finding some fascinating Halloween…