Bláthnat facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Bláthnat |
|
|---|---|
| Fled Bricrenn character | |
| Information | |
| Aliases | Bláthíne |
| Title | Princess |
| Family | Mend |
| Spouse(s) | Cú Roí |
| Nationality | Irish |
Bláthnat (which means "Little flower"), sometimes called Bláthíne, is an important character from early Irish literature. She was a princess, the wife of the brave warrior Cú Roí, and she also had a special connection with his rival, Cú Chulainn. Her story is part of the famous Ulster Cycle of Irish myths.
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Bláthnat's Story: A Tale of Rivalry
Bláthnat's story often involves a complicated situation between two great warriors. Her father was a king, though different stories name him differently. Some say he was Mend from Inis Fer Falga (which is thought to be the Isle of Man), while others mention Iuchna, Conchobar mac Nessa, or even Midir, a fairy king from Brí Léith in Westmeath.
Captured in a Raid
One day, warriors from the Red Branch of Ulster attacked her father's kingdom. This group included both Cú Roí and Cú Chulainn. During the attack, Bláthnat was captured. Along with her, the warriors took many cattle and a special magic cauldron.
Even though Bláthnat felt a connection with Cú Chulainn, Cú Roí chose her to be his wife. This led to a big disagreement between Cú Roí and Cú Chulainn. The argument ended with Cú Chulainn being embarrassed by Cú Roí.
A Difficult Choice
Later in the story, Bláthnat made a difficult choice. She helped Cú Roí's enemies. She poured milk into the River Finglas (also called Finnglas), near a place called Caherconree Fort. This was a secret sign to let Cú Chulainn know that Cú Roí was at home.
After this signal, Cú Chulainn was able to defeat Cú Roí. In response to this, Cú Roí's poet, Ferchertne, was very upset. He took Bláthnat and himself from a high cliff.
Similar Stories
Bláthnat's name, which means "Little flower," and her story of helping one side against another, are similar to another character. She is often compared to Blodeuwedd from a Welsh myth called Math fab Mathonwy, which is part of the Mabinogi.
Bláthnat in Fled Bricrenn
Bláthnat also appears in a story called Fled Bricrenn, which means "The Feast of Bricriu." In this tale, she is the wife of Cú Roí, who is away.
The Champion's Portion
In Fled Bricrenn, Bláthnat tells three heroes, including Cú Chulainn, to guard a fort on different nights. Only Cú Chulainn is strong enough to defeat the challenges he faces. Because of Cú Chulainn's bravery, Cú Roí decides that Cú Chulainn deserves the Champion's Portion. This was a special award that the heroes had been arguing about. However, the other two heroes still wanted to try and win it for themselves.
