Do you know the Celtic tale of Finn McCool and the Giant's Causeway? In episode 9 of Fairy Tale Flip, Vanessa and Donna dive deep into the giant, the hero, and the origin of the story of Finn McCool and his band of warriors called the Fianna. We explore the geological characteristics named for Finn in both Ireland and Scotland. We explore the nuances between legend, folktale, and fairy tale, highlighting Finn's historical backdrop, his transformation into a giant, how he was raised by two warrior foster mothers, as well as his notable tale involving the Salmon of Knowledge. The conversation touches on Finn's duality of intellect and strength, his multiple wives, and the decline of Celtic mythology in popular culture.
Links:
irishmyths.com
Finn McCool (read by Vanessa)
Notes:
•🧚 Introduction and Story Overview (00:04 - 10:48)
•Vanessa and Donnelly introduce "Fairy Tale Flip" podcast
•Summary of Finn McCool and the Giant's Causeway legend
•Discussion on geological explanation vs. mythological story
•Timeline of Irish history provided for context
•📚 Finn McCool's Background and Legends (10:48 - 22:33)
•Clarification on differences between legend, folktale, and fairy tale
•Finn McCool identified as a legend, based on a possible real person
•Discussion on Finn's son Oisin and his role in preserving stories
•Exploration of Finn's transformation from normal-sized to giant
•Introduction of the Salmon of Knowledge story
•🦸 Finn McCool's Characteristics and Feats (22:33 - 32:53)
•Finn's portrayal as both brawn and brain in different stories
•Discussion on Finn's multiple wives, including a deer
•Exploration of the Fianna, the band of warriors led by Finn
•Mention of Finn's healing powers and moral ambiguity
•🗺️ Cultural Significance and Geographical Impact (32:53 - 43:27)
•Finn McCool's importance in Irish culture and mythology
•Geographical locations attributed to Finn (Giant's Causeway, Isle of Man, Fingal's Cave)
•Discussion on the decline of Celtic mythology in popular culture
•Comparison with Greek mythology's prevalence
•🔮 Reflections and Future Plans (43:27 - 53:05)
•Hosts share their favorite Finn McCool stories
•Discussion on the Salmon of Knowledge and its significance
•Plans for future episodes and request for listener suggestions
•Encouragement for listeners to subscribe and engage
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Fabric of Folklore website