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The Prime Tales
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Traditional Irish tales are divided into Primary and secondary tales based upon the themes they represent.
As part of their responsibilities irish Seanchai or the more popular fili were required to memorize tales according to the theme which the tale entreated. One hundred and fifty of these tales were known as the Prim scela, or Primary tales. These tales were told on special occaisions within the clan or tribe. They were often told with the idea that their telling would bring good luck to the listeners. It was also hoped that the listeners would emulate the examples of the heroes of the tales.
The Primary tales were grouped by the following subjects: Death Tales Elopements Frenzies and Visions Battles Birth tales and conception tales Other world journeys Feasts Sieges voyages Exile Murderings Loves Military gatherings Cattle Raids courtships Attacks and famous destructions Floods Terrors and Horrors. Several stories contained more than one theme and often times were listed under more than one heading. These 150 tales were expected to be memorized by the fili and told exactly as they were learned, else the message might be lost. Many more tales were also learned. Some experts believe the number to be closer to 350, enough to tell a different tale each night during the cold dark winters experienced by the celts. |
Gladsheim
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