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Fionn mac Cumhail

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Fionn mac Cumhail was a legendary warrior of Irish mythology. The basis for most stories about him come from the Fenian cycle[?], supposedly narrated by the bard Ossian. According to legend, Fionn was a famous leader of the Fianna warrior/hunters, after whom the Fenian Brotherhood named themselves.

Fionn or Finn is actually a nickname meaning "fair."

Legend

Fionn was the son of Cumhail, leader of the Fianna, and Muirne. When he was just a baby, due to his father's at the hands of his rival, Goal mac Morn, his mother chose to send him into hiding in the woods, in the care of two women: Bodhmall, a Druid, and Liath Luachra, a warrior and trainer. In the care of these two women he was given an extensive education in the subjects considered important for an Irish youth of his caste and time. When old enough, he returned to society, and passed the extraordinary tests required for membership in the Fianna. Fionn tried to serve several kings but they refused, frightened of retaliation from Goal.

Finally, Fionn met a poet near the river Boyne and studied under him for seven years. Near the end of the seven years, he caught the Salmon of Knowledge and cooked it for his master, not knowing the power of the fish. While it cooked, he burst a blister on the salmon, thus inheriting its wisdom. He then knew how to gain revenge against Goal.

Along with 150 of the Fianna, Fionn killed Goal and the rest of his men.

Fionn eventually married a Sidhe woman.

Alternative: Fionn, Finn, Fionn mac Coul, Fionn mac Cool, Finn mac Coul, Finn mac Cool, Finn mac Cumhail



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