Chapter I. Brief information about celtic fairy-tales

2.2 Famous writers and works of Celtic fairy-tales
Celtic fairy tales are a rich and varied genre of literature that has inspired some of the most famous writers and works of literature in history. These tales have captured the imagination of readers and writers alike, offering a window into a world of magic, wonder, and adventure.
We will take a closer look at some of the most famous writers and works of Celtic fairy tales, examining the impact they have had on the literary world and beyond.
W.B. Yeats
One of the most famous writers of Celtic fairy tales is W.B. Yeats, an Irish poet, and playwright who was fascinated with the mythology and folklore of his country. Yeats was a keen student of Celtic culture and was deeply interested in the stories and beliefs of the ancient Celts.
Yeats was particularly drawn to the mystical and supernatural elements of Celtic mythology, and many of his poems and plays feature characters and themes inspired by Celtic legends. His epic poem, "The Wanderings of Oisin," is a retelling of the ancient Irish legend of Fionn mac Cumhaill and the Fianna.
In addition to his poetry and plays, Yeats was also a noted scholar of Irish folklore and mythology. He contributed greatly to the study of Celtic literature and played an important role in the revival of interest in Celtic culture in the early 20th century.
One popular Celtic fairy tale is "The Children of Lir," which tells the story of four siblings who were turned into swans by their jealous stepmother. The children, named Fionnuala, Aodh, Fiachra, and Conn, were cursed to spend 900 years as swans, flying from lake to lake across Ireland.
During their time as swans, the siblings faced many challenges and hardships. They were often hunted by hunters and endured harsh winters and storms. However, they remained close and relied on each other for support.
After 900 years, the curse was broken when they heard the tolling of a bell, which signaled the first Christian Mass in Ireland. Upon hearing the bell, the children were transformed back into their human form, but they were now old and feeble. They were welcomed by Saint Patrick, who granted them peace and welcomed them to Heaven.
This fairy tale serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of jealousy and the power of love and family. The stepmother's jealousy led to the curse that caused the siblings to suffer for nine centuries. However, their love and loyalty to each other allowed them to endure and eventually break the curse. The story also has ties to Christian mythology, emphasizing the power of faith and the rewards of living a righteous life.