Observations on the Character, Customs, and Superstitions of the Irish; And on Some of the Causes Which Have Retarded the Moral and Political Improvem - Softcover

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1812 edition. Excerpt: ...recitation; the same conclusion may be drawn from the actual reliques of Gaelic poetry. It is true, indeed, there is a very considerable difference between the ancient and modern compositions even in the Highlands: perhaps it may be said, that the one surpasses the other in all the higher and more exquisite beauties of poetry,, nearly as much as Milton excels the less distinguished of the English bards; but there 18s one quality common to both, though not always in an equal degree; their tendency to excite ' " t pure and tender emotions, to strengthen those associations that are favourable. to individual and social virtue, and to give full effect to those feelings, so dear to the heart of a Highlander, that make;.;...; '..;.......' The loud torrent, and the whirlwind's roar, But bind him to his native mountains more. Besides, in the Gaelic poetry there is scarcely ever, even in the most modern and inferior species of it, any allusion to witches, or saints, or giants, or miracles: there are, indeed, a few poems of this description, but from their extreme similarity to modern Irish poetry, it is not difficult to trace their origin. Many of the sgeul dachs or tales abound in the marvellous; especially in those parts of Argyleshire which are near Ireland. The bards sung of themes more suited to the taste of their patrons, of warriors.and hapless lovers, of the bloody combat of contending clans, or the mournful destiny of the maid who mourns in secret the early fall of " the dweller of her secret soul." The very superstition of the Highlands, though dark and sublime, had the best moral tendency: it was the superstition, not of an illiberal and debasing fanaticism, but of a warm hearted and affectionate people., exercising the kindest...