Just what is a leprechaun? To some, he is full of harmless mischief, guarding his elusive crock of gold. To others, an evil gnome bent on disrupting mortal lives with black magic.
Historian & folklorist Bob Curran turns the spotlight on the ‘real’ leprechaun – mysterious, complex and contradictory.
Category: Folklore
From the origins of this hero of Irish lore to his habits, occupations and characteristics. This book offers enlightenment on little-known aspects of the wider fairy world, as well as turning the spotlight on the real leprechaun.
Every country has its own myths about fairies and ‘wee folk’, but the Irish leprechaun is the undisputed king. To some, he is an impish figure full of harmless mischief, forever guarding his elusive crock of gold. To others, he is an evil gnome bent on disrupting the lives of mortals with his black magic and malevolent acts.
Historian and folklorist Bob Curran looks at the origins of this hero of Irish lore – fallen angel, diminished god or son of fairies – and at his habits, occupations and characteristics. He explores the superstitions surrounding the leprechaun and his enduring place in popular culture, and turns the spotlight on the ‘real’ leprechaun – mysterious, complex and contradictory.
beautifully written … quirky, informative and interesting … a fabulous read for fantasists and realists alike
an amusing ramble through the world of little folk in Ireland and a few adjacent territories
