Firbolg

In medieval Irish mythology, the Fir Bolg (also spelt Firbolg or Fir Bholg) are the fourth group of people to settle in Ireland. They are descended from the Muintir Nemid, an earlier group who abandoned Ireland and went to different parts of Europe. Those who went to Greece became the Fir Bolg and eventually returned to Ireland.

The Fir Bolg are considered to be mythical early invaders of Ireland. According to the Mythological Cycle in the Book of Invasions or Lebor Gabála Érenn, they arrived in Ireland many generations after the Nemadians and around thirty-seven years before the Tuatha Dé Danann.

The name "Fir Bolg" is usually translated as "men of bags." The Irish word "fir" means "men," and the word "bolg" or "bolc" can mean "belly," "bag," "sack," "bellows," and so forth.

The Fir Bolg are said to have migrated to Ireland from mainland Europe around 1500 BCE. They were believed to have migrated from Greece, where they were enslaved for 200 years before returning to Ireland.

In Irish mythology, the Fir Bolg are said to have ruled Ireland for thirty-seven years before being defeated by the Tuatha Dé Danann in the Battle of Moytura. The battle marked the beginning of the rule of the Tuatha Dé Danann in Ireland.

Today, the Fir Bolg are remembered as an important part of Irish mythology and folklore. They have also been featured in popular culture, such as in Dungeons & Dragons and other fantasy games.

For those interested in learning more about the Fir Bolg and Irish mythology, I recommend checking out resources such as the Book of Invasions, the Lebor Gabála Érenn, and other Irish mythological texts. Additionally, there are many online resources and websites dedicated to Irish mythology and folklore.

Recommended products or services:

• "The Book of Invasions" (Lebor Gabála Érenn) - a medieval Irish manuscript that tells the story of the origins of the Irish people and the settlement of Ireland.
• "The Táin" - a famous Irish mythology epic that tells the story of the great hero Cú Chulainn.
• "Irish Mythology" by Proinsias Mac Cana - a comprehensive guide to Irish mythology and folklore.
• "The Oxford Dictionary of Celtic Mythology" - a detailed dictionary of Celtic mythology and folklore.
• Online courses on Irish mythology and folklore, such as those offered on platforms like Udemy or Coursera.