The beauty of Ireland is a combination of spectacular natural scenery (such as the serene River Liffey, pictured at left) and a vibrant, unique culture…part of Ireland’s appeal and history is tied up in its traditional language.
Part of the Goidelic group of Insular Celtic languages, Irish (or Gaelic) has changed greatly throughout its long history…
Today, almost 1.5 million people (most living in the Emerald Isle) have some working knowledge of the Irish language. Hundreds of years ago, it was very different…back then, the language was the native tongue of most of Ireland’s citizens, and it was even utilized as a literary language by many Scots.
A Brief History of The Irish (Gaelic) Language
The Irish language has evolved through the centuries. In its first permutation, it was known as Old Irish. Religious texts such as Bibles and other manuscripts were often penned in this ancient form of the language.
When the Vikings came to the British Isles, they pillaged the Irish monasteries of gold and other treasures, and then they left behind another legacy – in time, many Nordic words began to appear in the Irish language.
While this period was underway (around the 10th century A.D.), the changes in the language heralded the beginning of Middle Irish…many of Ireland’s most beloved texts, stories and poems are written in Middle Irish.
In time, Middle Irish gave way to Gaelic, or Early Modern Irish. Today, Irish or Gaelic is taught to Irish schoolchildren, so that they can retain a bond with their culture and history. It is, and will probably always be, the national language of the Republic of Ireland.
Remnants Of A Different Time Still Remain…
In the Emerald Isle, certain areas offer a potent glimpse into the past…in the Aran Islands (located in County Galway), over 80 percent of the population speak Gaelic fluently. Over seventy percent consider it their first (and sometime only) language.
Tourists seeking a true Irish experience often venture over to the Islands, with all of their barren, windswept beauty and their unique people…visiting can feel like stepping back in time…
This area also features many ancient relics and unique vistas; it’s quite unspoiled and a great way to hear Gaelic in the modern age!
How To Learn Gaelic And Connect With Your Irish Heritage…
Many communities with a marked Irish presence have some form of Gaelic instruction available. For example, in Canada, on the East Coast, the Nova Scotia Gaelic Council offers handy classes and online tutorials for interested students.
For a course in your community, search for Gaelic and your city or town name – you may be pleased to find something close by. In lieu of personal lessons or a classroom setting, consider online training you can do right from home. Once you’ve learned the distinct phonetics of Gaelic, it is not as difficult to speak as you might expect!
Other Ways To Enjoy Ireland’s Culture…
The Irish are also renowned throughout history for their mastery in metal work. The artisans of the Insular Art period (also known as Hiberno-Saxon) used certain symbols as decorative motifs on chalices, brooches, necklaces, and rings.
Often, Celtic spirals and ornate interlace (knot work) were used to symbolize life-force and eternity. These mysterious patterns appear on art treasures such as the Ardagh Chalice, a relic of war crafted from gold, silver, and bronze.
Today, those wishing to honor their heritage on their wedding day often choose Celtic wedding bands inspired by the Irish Ardagh Chalice. Woven into these two-tone, 14k gold Celtic designs are the very same warrior shield symbols and delicate engravings that appear on the Chalice itself. All the artistry and authenticity of the ancient metal work continues for a new generation…
For a touch of ancient Irish spirit, consider choosing one of these special rings for your very own…