Some Irish Folklore

The legends and lore of Ireland form its rich cultural history. They are full of stories and faeries, leprechauns and historical tales including that of Saint Patrick ridding the famous Emerald Isle of snakes. These tales about the religious and the ancient pagan reflect the culture of this tiny island nation.

The shamrock, the plant with three leaves, is considered a symbol of Ireland. Saint Patrick equated the three leaves with the symbolism of the holy Christian trinity-the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. This symbol was said to have mystic powers of healing and protection. No wonder, it is often carved into graves.

The color green represents Emerald Isle, the famous nickname of Ireland, because of its lush green plants, thanks to the wet weather. It also stands for the color of life and spring, and is used to display the national pride of the Irish people.

Perhaps the most famous legend that stems from Ireland is that of the leprechaun. These tiny enchanted people are often associated with rainbows and pots of gold, as they guard the treasures from people who are so lucky to find the end of the rainbow. Usually, leprechauns are troublemakers and rogues, who mean no harm but only perform pranks to delight children and adults alike. Next time you see a rainbow, try to catch the leprechaun!

The Blarney stone is a legendary rock that rests in the famous Blarney Castle. During the reign of England's Queen Elizabeth I, the reagent tried to influence the Lord of Blarney to English rule. The poor Lord did not have the gift of eloquence, and was worried about going before the ruler. A wise woman instructed the Lord to kiss the Blarney stone for the gift of gab. He kissed the stone, traveled to London, and successfully made his plea before the Queen.