Sencha mac Ailella is a character from the Ulster Cycle of Irish mythology.[1] He acts as an important judge and notable poet during the reign of Conchobar mac Nessa.[2] He volunteered to foster Cúchulainn, but was only an educator.[1][3] Sencha helped establish peace between the Ulstermen.[4]

Sencha's face broke out in "blotches" when giving a misogynistic judgment. They were a consequence of a spiritual or magical ban that compelled him to behave fairly. His face was later healed when Brigit convinced Sencha to reconsider his judgment.[5]

He has been compared to Nestor of Homer's Iliad and Merlin of the Arthurian Legends.[1]

References

  1. ^ a b c "Sencha mac Ailella". About.com. Retrieved 8 February 2010.
  2. ^ Maier, Bernhard (1 April 2000). Dictionary of Celtic Religion and Culture. Boydell Press. p. 352. ISBN 978-0-8160-4524-2.
  3. ^ Monaghan, Patricia (January 2004). The Encyclopedia of Celtic Mythology and Folklore. Facts on File. p. 108. ISBN 978-0-8160-4524-2.
  4. ^ John, Matthews; Caitlin Matthews (1 March 2004). The Encyclopaedia of Celtic Myth and Legend: A Definitive Sourcebook of Magic, Vision, and Lore. The Lyon Press. p. 512. ISBN 978-1-59228-302-6.
  5. ^ Monaghan, Patricia (January 2004). The Encyclopedia of Celtic Mythology and Folklore. Facts on File. pp. 56–57. ISBN 978-0-8160-4524-2.
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