Nechtan (mythology)

Nechtan [ 'N ʴ extan ], also Elcmar [' elkvar ] (" the Terrible ") is a legendary figure from the Mythological Cycle of the Celtic mythology of Ireland. His name probably refers to an ancient water deity. His residence is in Síd Nechtain the River Boyne.

Mythology

Nechtan applies in Lebor Gabala Eirenn either the son or Labraids of the Nama and as husband of the river nymph Boand. This was the secret source Nechtans in Síd by walking around against the sun's path ( tuaithbel ) profaned what she had drowned in it. Thus, the flow Boand ( Boyne ) was created. The name has its origins in Nechtan protoindogermanischen Néptŏnos, inselkeltisch Neptunus.

Under the name Elcmar he is also mentioned as husband of Boand. His residence is in the narrative Tochmarc Etaine ( " The advertising to Étain ") of the elf hill Brú na Bóinne. Oengus, son of the Dagda, outwitted Elcmar and his father, and will forever be the owner of this elves hill.

Also Nuada, the king of the Tuatha Dé Danann, is nicknamed necht, which is why the two are often confused. Nechtan is also a common name Scottish and Pictish kings. The name of the Moores Nechtansmere, Scottish Gaelic Dhun Neachdain, Old Irish Dún Nechtain (now Dunnichen Mere at Dunnichen in the Scottish county of Angus ), also points out.

In Macgnímrada Con Culainn ( " Cú Chulainn boys deeds" ) his name is associated with the lying on the river Nechta Castle Dun Mac Nechta. The "three" sons Nechtans " Fiol ( " the Cunning " ), Tuachall ( " the Cunning " ) and Fandle (" The Swallow " ) are killed by Cú Chulainn in his first hero journey and their severed heads ( têtes coupées ) of it brought to Emain Macha.

In the story Immram Brain ( " Brans seafaring " ) is the name of Collbran Nechtan mac mac Bran Febails companions who dies with the return of the described therein Travel in Ireland.