With the reading for Monday you will be introduced to the hero of the course, Cu Chulaind, the Hound of Ulster.  He is an elite hero — a nearly perfect killing machine — but he is also flawed in a number of interesting ways.

The first two stories describe his birth and boyhood deeds.  The third story describes one of his more famous mature acts.  Here are some things to consider as you read:

  • Why the mysterious paternity?
  • Why does CC want the boy’s troop to ask for his protection?
  • What does it suggest that CC not immediately accompany Conchobur to the blacksmith’s feast?
  • What do you make of CC’s shyness around naked women?
  • What do you make of CC’s actions toward Aife’s son?
  • Why is Aife’s son named what he is named?
  • What does the description of CC tell you about early Irish concepts of heroes and heroism?