Cú Chulainn

Cú Chulainn was a legendary warrior hero in Irish mythology, appearing prominently in the Ulster Cycle as well as Scottish and Manx folklore. Born as Sétanta, he was the son of the Irish god Lugh and the mortal Deichtine, sister to King Conchobar mac Nessa, making him a demigod.

He earned his famous name as a youth after killing the fierce guard dog of the smith Culann in self-defense. Taking responsibility for his actions, he offered to serve as Culann's protector until a new hound could be trained, thus becoming the "Hound (cú) of Culann." His martial training came from the warrior woman Scáthach, who gifted him the legendary spear Gáe Bulg. A prophecy foretold that while his heroic deeds would bring him eternal fame, his life would be brief.

At seventeen, Cú Chulainn achieved his greatest feat by single-handedly defending Ulster against Queen Medb's armies of Connacht in the famous Táin Bó Cúailnge (Cattle Raid of Cooley). He was known for entering a terrifying battle frenzy called ríastrad, transforming him into an unrecognizable monster who could not distinguish friend from foe. In battle, he rode a chariot driven by his loyal charioteer Láeg and pulled by his horses Liath Macha and Dub Sainglend.

Though married to Emer, Cú Chulainn had several lovers, including Aífe, with whom he had a son named Connla. In a tragic turn of events, he unknowingly killed his own son in combat. His own death came in battle, where he tied himself to a standing stone to ensure he would die on his feet.

Cú Chulainn's legacy lives on in Irish art and literature. Notable depictions include Oliver Sheppard's bronze sculpture of the dying hero at Dublin's General Post Office, commemorating the 1916 Easter Rising, and a stained glass panel at St. Enda's School. Lady Gregory's 1902 work "Cuchulain of Muirthemne" retold his legends for modern audiences, though it softened some of the more violent aspects of the original tales.