fachan

A Dictionary of Celtic Mythology | 2004 | 562 words | Copyright

fachan, fachin. Grotesquely ugly super-natural figure in Scottish Gaelic folklore, counterparts of which are known in Irish tradition. The fachan is a variety of the better-known athach, while the dìreach is a more particular fachan. The fearsome creature has but one leg from its haunch, one hand protruding from its chest, one eye, and rough, spiky hair; cf. the Irish FER CAILLE; FOMORIANS. There were no creatures haunting lonely gorges and lochs that credulous peasants dreaded more to meet. Sometimes classed as a giant. See also BÒCAN; LUIDEAG.

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JAMES MacKILLOP. "fachan." A Dictionary of Celtic Mythology. 2004. Encyclopedia.com. 11 Feb. 2012 <http://www.encyclopedia.com>.

JAMES MacKILLOP. "fachan." A Dictionary of Celtic Mythology. 2004. Encyclopedia.com. (February 11, 2012). http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O70-fachan.html

JAMES MacKILLOP. "fachan." A Dictionary of Celtic Mythology. 2004. Retrieved February 11, 2012 from Encyclopedia.com: http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O70-fachan.html

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