Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
terrifying monster with sharp teeth, a long snapping tongue, and claws on the ends of his
fingers.
From that day forward, Cuchulainn was blessed (or cursed) with “warp-spasms” - every
time rage or battle-fury came over him, his body would transform and he would become
a fearsome beast. After winning many duels, he became known as the “Hound of Ul-
ster,” and the king rewarded his prowess with a place of honor at the high table.
This great warrior not only defended the king's court - he also charged into the field of
battle alone when Ulster's enemies were on the march, and singlehandedly defended his
homeland against the armies of Connacht under
Queen Medb
(see p. 39) But although
his spectacular defense was successful, Cu-chulainn would not survive the final battle.
Dealt his death wound, Cuchulainn resolved to die on his feet, and lashed himself to an
ancient standing stone.
That stone still stands today, hidden away in the corner of a backcountry field in County
Louth. The stone is marked only by a tiny plaque near the road, but fans of Irish myth-
ology can often be seen placing their hands on the stone's broad face, trying to find any
traces that the Hound of Ulster might have left behind.
