LT/CU 270 - Celtic Myth and Legend: Folklore, Fables, Fairy Tales

This interdisciplinary course will delve into the murky world of Celtic mythology and the magical folkloric traditions of Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. Through a combination of medieval texts and modern retellings we will explore the Irish Mythological, Ulster, and Finn Cycles, the Welsh Mabinogion, and a selection of Scottish folktales and legends. A diverse range of topics will be covered, such as the pre-Christian Celtic world, the distinctions between insular and continental Celtic mythology, comparative mythologies, oral folk traditions, and the close cultural connections between Ireland and Scotland. In addition to the literature aspect of this course, we will explore the inextricable link between myths and legends and landscape and archaeology, which will enable us to place our stories within historical, geographical, and literary frameworks. We will also read legends about the otherworldly fairy beings of the Irish Aos Sídhe, the Welsh Tylwyth Teg, and the daoine sìth of the Scottish Seelie Court. We will consider how the myths, legends, and folklore of Ireland, Scotland, and Wales are integral aspects of their respective societies and stand as bastions of cultural heritage and national identity. Students will be encouraged to draw upon their own knowledge of myths and legends from their respective cultural and educational backgrounds as well as make parallels between these ancient legends and modern fairy tales, children’s literature, and pop-culture.

NOTE: This course is offered during the regular semester and in the summer. For summer sections, the course schedule is condensed, but the content, learning outcomes, and contact hours are the same.