Irish Folklore

Studying folklore involves the exploration of traditional popular culture, in the past and in the present. It is primarily concerned with the history and culture of ordinary people, and with the evolution and role of tradition at a vernacular level. As an academic discipline, Folklore (or ethnology) involves the exploration of oral literature, social tradition, material culture, popular belief and practice, as well as traditional music and song. It explores the dynamics of communal memory and of culture as a collective phenomenon. It looks at the nature of popular tradition and the way in which such tradition is transmitted, usually outside of official channels and often across vast distances of time and space.

This course investigates Irish Folklore as a local expression of international cultural phenomena, making the subject particularly suitable for international students.

The educational values are centred on the promotion of a spirit of enquiry regarding the nature, persistence and dynamics of tradition in everyday life. They encourage students to develop a reflective approach to their studies, while also emphasising the centrality of fieldwork and archival sources to their research and learning. Teaching is carried out in lectures, in small-group tutorials, and in seminar-style participatory classes.

Click here to Download Course Pathways document.

First Year

In first year, modules allow you to explore the nature and context of Folklore and provide you with a general introduction to the wide range of topics involved. You will be introduced to key texts on Irish Folklore and to some of the principal sources of information on the subject. Modules include: Introduction to Folklore • Folklore & the Imagination

Second & Final Year

Irish Folklore is taught in lectures, with additional tutorials in several modules. Classes are in English. Prior knowledge of the Irish language is not required, however, students will find it beneficial in some areas of the subject. Modules include: The Study of Folklore: Origins & Development • Material Culture • Social Life & Legend • The Narrative Art • Healers & Healing • Music & Words: Identity in the Irish Context

Assessment in all modules involves a combination of in-trimester assignment work and an end-of-trimester exam.

There are opportunities for students to spend a year studying abroad while pursuing a BA Arts in Irish Folklore. Possibilities include Europe, Canada and the United States.

A degree in Irish Folklore is relevant to anyone interested in popular culture, tradition and society, and their interconnections. It provides an excellent basis for careers in: • Heritage Bodies and Institutions • Community Organisations and Local Development Initiatives • Media and Journalism • Teaching • Areas related to Irish Studies, Local Studies and Ethnic Studies • Communications

Graduates are prepared to pursue MA and Diploma courses in Irish Folklore at graduate level, as well as MLitt and PhD studies, specialising in one of the many areas of the subject.

• Level 5/6 QQI-FET
• Open Learning Entry Route
• Mature Entry Route
• DARE Entry Route
• HEAR Entry Route
• University Access

By joining the UCD College of Arts and Humanities you will be part of a vibrant community of students and faculty who are committed to creating a more sustainable, just and equitable future. Our courses are designed to equip students with the best education in their chosen arts and humanities subjects. Our research and teaching and learning connect with many of the SDGs, most notably:

• SDG 4: Quality Education -Promotes inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all.

• SDG 5: Gender Equality - Advances gender equality by addressing social norms, histories, and cultural practices that contribute to gender disparities.

• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities - Encourages understanding and action against social, economic, and political inequalities.

• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities - Enhances cultural understanding and heritage preservation, fostering sustainable communities.

• SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions - Promotes peace, justice, and strong institutions through critical inquiry into human rights, ethics, and governance.

• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals - Encourages global partnerships and collaboration by fostering international understanding and dialogue.

Our programmes equip students with critical thinking, empathy, and cultural awareness, essential for addressing complex global challenges.