The Táin
What’s inside...
A new translation of Ireland's national epic myth by award-winning author and Irish language expert Alan Titley. When Queen Maeve’s army marches north to steal the Brown Bull of Cooley, the leaders of Ulster are cast under a sleeping spell. Just one boy comes out to face the warrior queen and her invading Connacht horde. A lad who has sworn to protect his homeland like a guard, the hero Cúchulainn. He’s only a beardless youth against an army of men, but when he twists into his war-form, Cúchulainn is the fiercest fighter in Ireland. This is Irish legend as you haven’t read it before.
Age
8-12
Length
176 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Cú Chulainn
Fergus Mac Róich
Queen Medb
King Ailill
Discussion points
How do you think Cú Chulainn felt when he defended Ulster on his own? Can you think of a time you had to do something challenging by yourself?
What do you think makes a hero? Do you see any heroic qualities in the characters from the story?
Why do you think the characters in the story valued their cows so much? What's something that's very valuable to you?
How did the story's setting in ancient Ireland influence the characters' actions and decisions? Can you imagine this story in a different setting?
What lessons can we learn from the conflicts in the story? How can we apply these lessons to our own lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing Cú Chulainn's challenges, share a personal story where you faced a challenge, to help your child relate to the theme.
Encourage your child to think about what makes someone a hero by asking about people they consider heroic in their own life.
Discuss the value of personal belongings and responsibilities, drawing parallels with the characters' attachment to their cows in the story.
Use a map to show where Ireland is, providing a visual aid that helps your child understand the context and setting of the story.
Highlight real-life examples of resolving conflicts using peaceful means, to contrast with the battles in the story and promote problem-solving skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: In 'The Táin', the young hero Cú Chulainn displays immense bravery as he defends his territory against an overwhelming force. His courage in facing fearsome enemies highlights the values of bravery and selflessness.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by standing up for themselves and others in the face of adversity or bullying at school. This story encourages them to be brave and uphold their principles, even when it's difficult.
Example Lesson: Loyalty and Duty
Explanation: Cú Chulainn's loyalty to his king and his people plays a central role in the narrative. His dedication to his duties, regardless of personal risk, underscores the importance of loyalty.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in a child's life through their loyalty to friends and family. It teaches them the importance of being reliable and trustworthy, and the value of sticking to commitments and responsibilities.
Example Lesson: Consequences of Greed
Explanation: The war at the heart of 'The Táin' is largely fueled by Queen Medb's greed for the prized bull of Ulster, demonstrating how personal desires can lead to larger conflicts.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to consider the potential consequences of their actions, particularly those motivated by selfishness. This story illustrates the importance of thinking about how their desires might affect others around them.
Example Lesson: Strategic Thinking and Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout 'The Táin', Cú Chulainn must often use his wits and strategic thinking to overcome challenges and opponents stronger than himself.
Real-World Application: This narrative encourages children to use their intellect and creativity to solve problems. Whether it's figuring out a difficult homework problem or resolving a dispute with a sibling, strategic thinking is a valuable skill.
Example Lesson: Respect for Adversaries
Explanation: Despite the fierce battles, there is a mutual respect between Cú Chulainn and his enemies. This respect among warriors teaches an understanding and appreciation for one's opponents.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to maintain respect in competitive situations such as sports or academic contests. It teaches them to value and learn from their adversaries, promoting sportsmanship and fair play.