Irish Culture of Death. Cheerful Funerals, Spirits of the Other World, and Body Snatchers

Ireland has gifted the world not only the step, the jig, and the cheerful St. Patrick's Day, but also the "most frightening holiday" — Halloween. The otherworldly realm here has been intertwined with the real one since ancient times: the green island is dotted with graveyards, and local festivals preserve the legacy of ancient rituals — and they say that in some places you can still hear the mournful wail of a banshee.

The book by philologist and professional guide Ekaterina Moskovskaya will tell you about that grim side of Irish culture that is often overlooked. You will read about astronomical rituals in tombs, the crests of banshees, and the mischievous little demons of Puca, learn how the Irish prepared for death and why their funerals were little different from weddings — and perhaps, from now on, you may be cautious about disturbing the hawthorn bushes...

What distinguishes dolmens from cairns? What are the archaic roots of Samhain and why should we regard the "white mare" with respect? Why is the "Cave of Cats" the gateway to hell? Where do fairies dwell and can they get to heaven? What is the use of the water left from washing the corpse? Finally, why awaken the dead with songs and dances?

Thanks to this book, you will immerse yourself in this captivating culture — simultaneously bright and sinister, — and understand why the Irish are so cheerful not only "in life" but also "in death".