Giollas na gCos Dubh'

Abstract

The author recorded the tale entitled ‘Giollas na gCos Dubh’ from Pádraig Ó Nia, originally from the island of Fínis, Co. Galway, in 1982. To date, only two other versions of the tale have been identified, although some motifs are found in other narratives. After introducing the storyteller and describing his community, the author transcribes the tale, in which the hero rescues a mortal held captive by the fairies, frees her from a sleep charm, and marries her. When Giollas again encounters the fairies, they ask him to help them abduct a mortal woman. He insists that they go first to Rome, where the fairies help Giollas persuade the Pope to allow Giollas’ local priest to resume celebrating mass. Returning to Ireland, Giollas sabotages the fairies’ planned abduction, and the woman is safe. This article is written in Irish.