Celtic Fairies

Celtic myth and folklore - especially that of Ireland - is rich with supernatural creatures. Many of these are classed as fairy or, more traditionally, faerie or fey folk. As with all such tales there are many versions however Celtic fairies in Ireland and Scotland are often known as the Sidhe.

The Sidhe

The name Sidhe (pronounced "shee") refers to not one type of faerie but to many different varieties of supernatural being. They are quite unlike our modern concept of a fairy. Although they vary considerably in appearance, the Sidhe are in general more like Tolkein elves than Tinkerbell.

According to legend the Sidhe are descended from the ancient race of Tuatha De Danann. These were the peoples of the goddess Danu who inhabited Ireland before the coming of man (the Gaels - sons of Mil, also known as Milesians). They brought to Ireland four great treasures: The Dagda's Cauldron, the spear of Lugh, the Stone of Fal and the Sword of Nuada.

The Gaels battled the Tuatha De Dann and forced them to retreat underground where they are believed to live in hollowed out hills. The Sidhe are sometimes referred to as the "people of the mounds". They are often associated with metalwork and smithcraft as well as being the protectors of hills and forests.

The Sidhe have various geographic tribes and are usually organised like an aristocratic court with a local king or queen.

There are many types of Sidhe with many shapes, sizes and powers. These include the daoine sidhe or daoine beaga (the little people), the leprechaun amd the bean sidhe (banshee).

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