The term "Ossianic Hounds" primarily refers to the loyal and famous hounds, Bran and Sceólang, belonging to the mythical Irish hero Fionn mac Cumhaill (Finn McCool), whose son was the poet-warrior Oisín (Ossian).
- Bran and Sceólang: These were Fionn mac Cumhaill's most trusted companions, who accompanied him on numerous hunts and adventures.
- According to legend, they were born as hounds after Fionn's sister, Uirne, was transformed into a dog while she was pregnant; thus, the hounds were actually his nephews with human-like intelligence and loyalty.
- They were the ones who first discovered a young, wild Oisín wandering in the forest, recognizing him as Fionn's son.
- These hounds are often associated with the ancient breed of Irish wolfhounds, known for their size and bravery.
The Role of Hounds in the Ossianic (Fenian) Cycle
The Ossianic Cycle (also known as the Fenian Cycle) is a body of Irish literature focusing on Fionn mac Cumhaill and his warrior band, the Fianna, with Oisín as the narrator of many tales.
- Sadhbh's Transformation: Hounds played a crucial role in the tragic story of Oisín's mother, Sadhbh. She was cursed by a dark druid and turned into a deer (hind). When Fionn hunted her, his hounds refused to harm her, recognizing her true nature, which led to Fionn finding and marrying her.
- Symbolism and Popularity: The loyalty and intuition of these mythical hounds made them powerful symbols. The stories of Fionn and his dogs have inspired art and literature for centuries, with the Irish wolfhound being a symbol of Irish heritage.
The Name "Ossian"
The name Oisín (anglicized as Ossian) itself means "little fawn" or "little deer" in Irish, a direct reference to his mother's time as a deer. This etymology highlights the strong connection between the characters, the hounds, and the natural world, particularly the deer.