 | The legends of Ireland are rife with mentions of the charming, impish Leprechaun. If you are curious about the lore and history of your ancestral home, you may be interested in learning more about the leprechaun and his origins in the myths, folklore, and verse of the Emerald Isle. |
The leprechaun is traditionally viewed as a mischievous little creature, who spends his days crafting shoes and storing his profits in the proverbial pot of gold. Legend has it that you can find the pot ‘o’ gold if you listen closely for the hammering sounds the tiny fairy makes as he does his work.
Catching a leprechaun is hard work. They are inclined to resist contact with human beings, according to legend, and they are crafty. The leprechaun will share his secrets with you if you are lucky enough to find him. According to the tales of old, a leprechaun will lead you to his pot of gold and bestow his riches upon you, if you are clever enough to meet him.
The classic leprechaun of Irish folklore stands a mere 24 inches in height, and he will have a glint of mischief in his sparkling eyes. He will greet you with a bright, happy expression that may mask some element of trickery. Leprechauns enjoy their own prankish nature, and they will relish playing tricks to fool the people who seek them out.
Your leprechaun may have an appetite for fine malt whiskey and tobacco from a pipe. They are also rumored to be able to drink you under the table, despite their diminutive size! These pleasure seeking fairy creatures carry many secrets, and they will take pains to protect their treasures from prying eyes.
There are no female leprechauns. These elfin beings have inhabited the Emerald Isle for thousands of years, before the Druids practiced their Pagan faith in Ireland. In order to capture one of these elusive fairies, you must maintain eye contact with him. He cannot flee as long as you stare at one another. However, if you turn away from him, he will seize his chance and disappear.
Beware of the many hidden powers of the leprechaun. He may have the ability to hypnotize you, and his power will allow his to escape. Keep watch for his bright red coat, and his distinctive, pointed cap. He will be a sharp dresser, with many rows of decorative buttons upon his cloak.
The legend of the leprechaun is one of Ireland’s most charming tales. There are many symbols of Ireland, and the little imp who cobbles shoes and hides his riches in a pot of gold is just one example of the Irish story-telling tradition.
If you enjoy Irish symbols and folklore, you will find other find examples on today’s Irish jewelry designs, which echo the tales of the Irish people. Shamrocks and Claddagh symbols all tell a story of centuries past, and they are a fine way to celebrate the gifts of story and verse that are a hallmark of the Irish people.
who’s the author who wrote this legend of the leprechaun?
Hi Kristina, I’m not aware of who the original story came from. It’s kinda legend/folklore.
what happens when you see a fairy?
I do belive in leperchauns why? well i was in ireland in the northern side and saw a little creature stareing at me very seriously happy as i looked i blacked out and then he was gone.
i love leperchauns its a tradition in my family in ireland to belive,hunt,and capture one.
i loved this article! I love leprechauns and their stories. A reason may be becaause i have march birthday! (hint hint):)
I know these little creatures, and they are tricky devils. Also, the article leaves out other bits of the lore, like their tendancy to borrow a shepards flock to go about his chores at night. (:
I have loved tales of old for as far as the ancient Egyptians, but my fav. and uncharted roam is the Irish lore. Sad as to how I am of Irish decent. I would love more true tales and origins of the myths and would be grateful for a hint at a starting point.