Ulster Cycle
6 primary works
Book 1
Book 2
Acclaimed historian and storyteller Randy Lee Eickhoff continues for modern readers the saga he began with The Raid, revealing more of the incredible feats of Cuchulainn, the Boy-warrior. If The Raid is Ireland's The Iliad, then The Feast is its Odyssey. Eickhoff's bold retelling conveys the lyricism and passion of Ireland's ancient inhabitants. They passed these stories down through a rich oral tradition beginning in the eighth century B.C. until they could be written down by Medieval monks on illuminated manuscripts in the seventh century.The Feast is a modern translation of one of Fled Bricriu, one of Ireland's most thrilling and humorous legends. Three men, each striving to be named Champion of Conchobor's realm enter into a battle of wits and swords in an effort to enjoy the privileges accorded to the national champion. As the heroic competition unfolds, visits to and from the otherworld threaten to unmask the true nature of the gathering. And at the center remains Bricriu, god of mischief and creator of the most delicious and devilish banquet the world has ever seen.
Book 3
Book 4
Acclaimed historian and storyteller Randy Lee Eickhoff continues his modern translation of Ireland's most thrilling legends with THE DESTRUCTION OF THE INN. Part myth, part heroic saga, and part literary tour de force, Eickhoff again brings to life the Ulster Cycle. In the tradition of the seanchai who passed these tales from generation to generation, and the seventh century monks who finally transcribed them, THE DESTRUCTION OF THE INN is a beautiful, powerful tale.
Book 5
A collection of stories based on Irish myths and the country's pre-Christian culture features such characters as chariot-riding warriors and mystical Druids, in a treasury complemented by story introductions and a comprehensive index. By the author of Fallon's Wake. Reprint.
Book 5
Randy Lee Eickhoff continues his work among the Ancient Irish with several preludes that lead up to Ireland's national epic, Tain Bo Cuailnge. Here is the story of Cuchulainn, who has become to the Irish what Achilles is to the Greeks. A mystical and enigmatic warrior, his dedication to country and to king proved so inspirational that his concept of an Irish warrior standing alone against formidable odds was adopted by the Irish rebels as a rallying cry in 1916. This is his story, as he stood on the outskirts of Ulster, facing an enemy crouching in on all sides.