The Truth About Leprechauns

Download or read book The Truth About Leprechauns written by Dr. Robert Curran and published by The O'Brien Press Ltd. This book was released on 2017-03-06 with total page 153 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: 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.