Beyond the Mist

by Peter O'Connor

Ancient mythology can be seen as a source of understanding of the universal themes and conflicts that have beset human beings throughout time, such as the transitory nature of life, the inevitability of separateness, and the existence of the personal and collective unconscious. Beyond the Mist is an introduction to Irish mythology which also explores its contemporary relevance to the mysteries, unknowns, and vicissitudes of life. It explores the various divine and other figures as symbolic aspects of the individual psyche and the unconscious mind, while providing insights into these repressed aspects of our inner life and suggesting appropriate ways of relating to and integrating these qualities.

Genres: Mythology, Irish Literature, Spirituality, Ireland

246 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2000

Reviews

[Jonathan Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I admit to a potentially biased review here, owing to my existing interests in Irish mythology and Jungian psychology, which this book delightfully combines (along with a few Freudisms!) However this comprehensive and largely engaging read blends the worlds of Irish myth and magic with analytical psychology and how we can indeed utilise such stories to comprehend the workings of our own minds in today's world. For those who fail to find fascination in the archaic, or the functioning of the human psyche, attention may wane.

The author covers three of the four Cycles from pre-christian Irish texts, namely the Mythological, Ulster and Fenian Cycles (the Historical Cycle is not included), delving into the most popular legends and myths, full of spells and curses (geis), magical creatures and vengeful deities. There are also chapters introducing key Gods and Goddesses of Ireland, the Otherworld, heroic epics and famous battles.

The subject matter inevitably means a multitude of old Irish words to get your tongue around, from characters to place names, which might reasonably deter many readers! But one of the personal highlights is the saving grace of a pronunciation guide (just when you thought you knew how to say Oenghus, Fionn mac Cumhaill or Tuatha de Danaan!) I found myself continually referring to this page from beginning to end and it helped immensely in creating an easier, flowing read.

This book contains the best of both worlds; indulging in fantasy stories for the sheer enjoyment and in the process understanding about aspects of your own character through psychological insights. For this reason I found it a very fulfilling and enlightening read and I've certainly come to view the value of myth in an improved light; it's a pity that we no longer embrace the relevance of mythology today.

[Marko Vasić · Rating 5 out of 5]

This (text)book is an comprehensive study that elucidates much complex and tangled Irish Mythology. All references are properly cited, thus reader may consider it for further reading. Author distinctly explaines details from all four cycles of Irish Mythology, but first two cycles mainly (Mythological and Ulster Cycles). All considerable names are mentioned and explained, hence I have no doubt any more which one is personal name and which one is geographical. Being Jungian psychologist, author gave paralell explanation of characters according to the postulates of Jung's psychological theory.

[Maya · Rating 5 out of 5]

For a full review of the book please see my site: Beyond the Mist

[Chloe J · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend for Iripols and the like. lots of great and accurate info as well as the thesis point.