Our Heritage in Bloom

Was the original shamrock really a clover, and if so, which one? Can you make beer out of heather? Where does meadowsweet take its name, and what did it give name to? Which herbs should you take with you to protect you on a long journey? Or plant by your gate to prevent supernatural attacks?

Irish tradition is rich in plant lore. From the early knowledge passed down with the Tuath Dé Danann sagas to the cures of Biddy Early, and more recently the School Collection, plants have been used as medication, in the house, when dealing with the supernatural, and in a wealth of other uses. For each plant, we will have a very brief description, and then we will explore different aspects of heritage, including legend, poetry/songs, domestic and medicinal uses, and superstitions. This course is open to all level of Irish fluency, from beginners to advanced.

This is a companion course to our in-person cultural activity holiday of the same name. Both courses complement each other without unduly repeating the same material.

Timetable

Participants will attend one class per week from 7.00–8.30pm (Irish time) on Monday evenings. The course includes eight live online classes starting February 10th, 2025. There will be a mid-term break during the week beginning March 17th.