Since my Dark Goddess trilogy revolves around the seasons of Samhain and Beltaine, I wanted to mention one of the myths involving these two seasons and the two goddesses in my story.
‘The Cailleach’ is believed to be an earth goddess much older than the famous Tuatha de Danaan. In some stories she is the Crone. I chose her because she is known in Ireland and Scotland, which corresponded with the settings of my story. She is one of the oldest and most powerful goddesses who personifies the cutting winds and harshness of the northern winter. She is usually an old hag, but there are Irish myths that show her as a beautiful young maiden. In legends, she appears to the hero as a hideous old woman to test his heart for kingship. The one who kisses the old hag is rewarded—she changes into a beautiful maiden and bestows sovereignty on him.
There are many stories about Cailleach, but the one I focused on is the legend of Cailleach and Brigit (a member of the Tuatha de Danaan). Brigit is a sun goddess, her associations with metalworking (fire) and light are appropriate for rituals welcoming back the sun. Her festival is held on Imbolc (Feb. lst). There are many stories about her as she is an enduring goddess and is still revered today as St. Brigit. Cailleach ruled in winter months (awakening at Samhain) and Brigit ruled the summer months (awakening at Beltaine). The part that interested me about this legend is that they may have been two different faces of the same goddess. I drew on this myth and put my own spin on it.
Kelley Heckart
‘Timeless tales of romance, conflict & magic’
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0 COMMENTS
Cindy L
13 years agoI think I’m ready to say goodbye to Cailleach and hello to Brigit! I’ve had enough of winter! 😉