Irish mythology
Irish mythology is the body of myths indigenous to the island of Ireland. It was originally passed down orally in the prehistoric era. In the early medieval era, some myths were transcribed by Christian monks, who heavily altered and Christianised the myths. Irish mythology is the best-preserved branch of Celtic mythology. The myths are conventionally grouped into 'cycles'. The Mythological Cycle consists of tales and poems about the god-like Tuatha Dé Danann, who are based on Ireland's pagan deities, and other mythical races like the Fomorians. Important works in the cycle are the Lebor Gabála Érenn, a legendary history of Ireland, the Cath Maige Tuired, and the Aided Chlainne Lir. The Ulster Cycle consists of heroic legends relating to the Ulaid, the most important of which is the epic Táin Bó Cúailnge. The Fenian Cycle focuses on the exploits of the mythical hero Finn and his warrior band the Fianna, including the lengthy Acallam na Senórach. The Cycles of the Kings comprises legends about historical and semi-historical kings of Ireland, and tales about the origins of dynasties and peoples. There are also mythical texts that do not fit into any of the cycles; these include the echtrai tales of journeys to the Otherworld, and the Dindsenchas. Some written material has not survived, and many more myths were probably never written down.
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