Griogal Cridhe facts for kids

Griogal Cridhe (say "GREE-uh-gul KREE-uh") means "Beloved Gregor." It's a very old and sad Scottish song. It's a type of song called a lament, which is a song of sorrow. It's also a lullaby, a gentle song to help someone sleep.

This special song was written in the Gaelic language by a woman named Mór Chaimbeul (Marion Campbell). She was the wife of Griogair Ruadh Mac Griogair (Gregor the Red MacGregor). He was a leader of the Clan MacGregor from Glen Strae. Gregor lost his life in 1570, and Mór wrote this song to remember him.

What is Griogal Cridhe?

Griogal Cridhe is a famous Scottish folk song. It tells a story of deep sadness and love. The song was created by Mór Chaimbeul to express her feelings after her husband, Gregor MacGregor, passed away. It is known for its beautiful and emotional words.

Who Was Gregor MacGregor?

Gregor the Red MacGregor was an important leader. He was the chief of the Clan MacGregor. This clan lived in a place called Glen Strae in Scotland. Gregor lived from 1541 to 1570. He was a well-known figure in his time.

Gregor MacGregor's life ended at Taymouth Castle in Perthshire. This happened on April 7, 1570. His passing was a very sad event for his family and clan.

The Story Behind the Song

Mór Chaimbeul, Gregor's wife, was heartbroken when he died. To deal with her sadness, she wrote Griogal Cridhe. This song became a way for her to share her grief. It also helped to keep Gregor's memory alive.

The song shows how much Mór loved Gregor. It talks about how much she missed him. It also describes the harsh world they lived in. The song is a powerful example of how music can help people cope with loss.

What Does the Song Mean?

The lyrics of Griogal Cridhe are full of emotion. They describe Mór's sorrow and her memories of Gregor. For example, one part says: "Great darling of the World's people They spilt your blood yesterday And they put your head on an oaken stake Near where your body lay."

This shows the harsh reality of Gregor's death. The song also talks about Mór's deep personal loss. She feels like she has lost everything important to her. Another line says: "Though now I have no apples, And others have them all, My own apple, fragrant, handsome – And the back of his head on the ground."

This means that while others have good things, her most precious "apple" (Gregor) is gone. The song ends with Mór imagining herself grieving at his grave. This shows her lasting sadness.

The song is a powerful reminder of love and loss. It has been sung for hundreds of years. It helps people understand the feelings of grief and remembrance.