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What is the Celtic version of the Valkyrie?

Published in Celtic War Goddess 3 mins read

The Celtic version of the Valkyrie is most commonly identified as The Morrígan, a powerful and complex figure in Irish mythology.

The Morrígan is a prominent Celtic war goddess who embodies the darker, more visceral aspects of battle and sovereignty. While not direct equivalents, she is broadly considered a parallel to the Germanic Valkyries due to her strong association with warfare, fate, and the battlefield.

The Morrígan: A War Deity of Celtic Lore

In Irish mythology, The Morrígan plays a significant role in conflicts, often appearing on or above battlefields to influence the outcome. Her presence can incite warriors to valor or strike fear into their hearts. Unlike the Valkyries, who primarily choose slain warriors for Valhalla, The Morrígan is more actively involved in the process of war itself, sometimes even participating in the fighting or delivering prophecies.

Her attributes and functions include:

  • War Incitement: She inspires terror and fury, stirring up the frenzies of battle.
  • Prophecy and Fate: The Morrígan is known for her prophetic abilities, often foretelling death or victory before and during battles, particularly the famous Battle of Moytura.
  • Shape-shifting: She frequently appears in various forms, most notably as a raven or crow flying over battlefields, a symbolic link to death. She is also associated with a cow, which may also suggest a broader connection to wealth and the land, highlighting her multifaceted nature beyond just war.
  • Triple Goddess Aspect: The Morrígan is often depicted as a trio of individuals, all sisters. These are commonly identified as Badb, Macha, and Nemain (or Anand), each representing different facets of battle, sovereignty, and even the cycle of life and death. This triple aspect is a hallmark of Celtic deity representation.

Comparing The Morrígan and Valkyries

While both are formidable female figures associated with warfare, their roles differ:

Feature The Morrígan (Celtic) Valkyries (Norse)
Primary Role War deity, inciter of battle, prophet, protector of sovereignty. Choosers of the slain, escorts to Valhalla.
Battlefield Presence Active participant, inspirer, harbinger of fate. Can also be a warrior. Observes battles, selects worthy fallen warriors.
Animal Association Raven/Crow (death), Cow (land/wealth). Primarily horses (ride to battlefields).
Nature Often a triple goddess, associated with both destructive and protective aspects of sovereignty. Maidens of Odin, serving a specific purpose in the afterlife.
Origin Irish Mythology Norse Mythology

This table highlights why The Morrígan is considered comparable to the Germanic Valkyries, particularly in her function as a war deity. Her multi-faceted nature, including her association with a cow and her frequent depiction as a trio of sisters, gives her a unique depth within Celtic folklore.

For further exploration of The Morrígan's role in Celtic mythology, refer to resources on Irish deities such as those found on Wikipedia or reputable mythological encyclopedias. For more on Valkyries, sources like Britannica can provide comprehensive details.