I have always loved mythology and folklore. The origin of stories about fairies and especially leprechauns, our most famous 'little people'. 'Leath bhrogan' are the cultural symbol of Ireland and their names translate from 'shoemaker'. because they are cobblers by trade. I often wondered where they got their precious crock of gold from and that if each little fellow owned one, then they must be extremely rich and should be swimming in the clear, crystal sea of the Bahamas, drinking champagne and eating delicious food. At least, that is what I would be doing if I had a crock of gold. If you are lucky enough to find one sitting under a tree, smoking his pipe with eyes close, then grab him quick because he will have to give you his gold and no arguments! But they are cunning and mischievous so don't expect it to be easy.
The harp has a story behind our nation symbol too. Remember the one on Guinness? It is based on the 'Brian Boru Harp', considered to be one of the finest surviving examples of the Gaelic harp, or cláirseach. It's said that evil gods stole the first harpr from Dagda, a king in Irish/Celtic mythology. With lack of music in Ireland, sadness passed over the country until the king turned to art to cheer them up. Eventually the harp was given back and joy returned to the land. This is how the harp became a national icon and has become cemented in the folk music tradition.
And lastly, The Shamrock. It was very important in Irish legend in the spread of Christianity. St. Patrick tried to educate the Celts on the Holy Trinity, but could not understand what he was trying to say to them. They finally understood when he saw a clover and decided to use it to explain the three strands of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit as one. This is how the Shamrock became so important in Irish history and social tradition.
