Irish Folklore / Béaloideas: Introduction

Introduction

Irish Folklore is a fascinating and expansive subject. The influence of folklore practices and superstitions extend into literature, visual art, music in Ireland. This guide aims to gather together the vast amount of materials we have on the subject.

Wren Boys, St. Stephen’s Day, Athea, Co. Limerick. [Caoimhín Ó Danachair, 1947]

The National Folklore Collection in UCD has devised these sub categories of Irish Folklore:

• Supernatural Beings
• Traditional Medicine
• Folk Medicine
• Manners and Customs
• Local Legends
• Folk Poetry
• Local Lore