ST. PATRICK'S DAY

What is St. Patrick known for?

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Answer explanation

St. Patrick is renowned as the patron saint of Ireland for introducing Christianity to the Irish people during the 5th century. Born in Britain, he was captured by Irish raiders and enslaved, but he later escaped. After becoming a priest, he returned to Ireland to spread Christianity. One popular legend says he used the shamrock to teach the Irish about the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit). St. Patrick is credited with helping to replace pagan traditions with Christian practices, leaving a lasting influence on Irish culture. His legacy is celebrated worldwide on March 17th, St. Patrick’s Day.

Why is St. Patrick's Day celebrated on March 17th?

• It is the date of Ireland's independece.

• It marks the start of spring in Ireland.

• It is believed to be the date of St. Patrick's death.

• It celebrates the founding of Dublin.

Which colour is traditionally associated with St. Patrick's Day?

Answer explanation

Green is associated with Ireland for several historical and cultural reasons:

1. The Landscape: Ireland is famously known as the "Emerald Isle" because of its lush, green countryside, made vibrant by the country's frequent rainfall and mild climate.

2. The Shamrock: The shamrock, a green three-leafed plant, is a symbol of Ireland. According to legend, St. Patrick used it to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity during his mission to spread Christianity.

3. Nationalism: During Ireland's fight for independence from British rule, green became a symbol of Irish identity and unity. It represented the Irish Catholics and their aspirations for freedom, contrasting with the Protestant association with the color orange.

4. Cultural Tradition: Over time, green became a general symbol of Irish culture, especially during St. Patrick's Day celebrations. It is used worldwide to represent Irish pride and heritage.

Which is the capital city of Ireland?

Which words can you find related to Ireland?

Which of these countries is known as the Emerald Isle?

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Answer explanation

Ireland is called the "Emerald Isle" because of its lush, green landscape. The country's mild climate, frequent rainfall, and fertile soil create ideal conditions for greenery to thrive year-round. The nickname highlights Ireland's natural beauty, with its rolling hills, verdant pastures, and forests.

The term "Emerald Isle" was popularized by poet William Drennan in his 18th-century poem When Erin First Rose. It has since become a romantic and iconic way to describe Ireland's striking, green countryside, symbolizing its natural charm and cultural identity.

Who are famous characters in Ireland?

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Answer explanation

Molly Malone is a legendary figure in Irish folklore, celebrated in the famous song "Molly Malone". She is often depicted as a young woman who sold fish and mussels on the streets of Dublin, crying out, "Cockles and mussels, alive, alive-o!"

According to the tale, Molly was a hardworking fishmonger who tragically died young, possibly from fever. While her story is likely fictional, she has become a symbol of Dublin's history and spirit. A statue of Molly Malone stands in the city, honoring her as an iconic part of Irish culture.
James Joyce (1882–1941) was one of Ireland's most influential writers and a pioneer of modernist literature. Born in Dublin, Joyce is best known for his innovative and experimental works, which capture the complexities of human thought and Irish life.

His most famous works include:

• "Ulysses" (1922): A groundbreaking novel that parallels Homer’s Odyssey, following a single day in the life of Leopold Bloom in Dublin.

• "Dubliners" (1914): A collection of short stories portraying ordinary Dubliners and their struggles.

• "A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man" (1916): A semi-autobiographical novel about a young man's journey to self-discovery.

CLIFFS OF

What aspects of Irleland's culture, history, or landscape do you find most fascinating? Why?