Status Updates From Scáthach: Warrior Queen fro...

In her castle, the legends say, she made promising heroes into formidable warriors, training them in military prowess and martial arts. Cú Chulainn, the hero of the Ulster Cycle, vowed to find this great warrior woman and learn from her-or else die trying. Such was her reputation, which stated that she knew great secrets of warfare. However, only the brave and ablest of heroes could actually reach Scáthach and begin

Scáthach is known by several names: Skatha, Scáthach nUanaid, Sgàthach an Eilean Sgitheanach, and Scáthach Bunand. In literal translation, her name means “Shadow”, or “Shadowy One”, and it originates from Irish scáthach - shady, shadowy. Other nicknames she has are the “Warrior Maid”, or Scáthach Buanand (Victorious).

Scáthach is one of the great heroines of the Irish myths. At first glance, this figure might seem obscure and unimportant - but that is far from the truth. Once we begin to peel back the layers of the Ulster Cycle legends, we can understand that her role is critical for the stories, and that her origins might hide a great and inspiring connection.