Myth and Poetry in the Encounters of Spain and Ireland

Abstract

The ancient link between Spain and Ireland begins with an Irish legend which traces the origins of the Irish back to Galicia in northwest Spain. This link, forged by magic and an enjoyment of life, is unmatched by any of the other northern countries. The close relationship has been strengthened throughout history and evidence of this is the help given by Spain to Ireland in their fight against the English enemy. The emblematic impact of the «flight of the earls» and the unprecedented welcome bestowed on them and their integration into Spanish life is witnessed by the number of important Irish surnames of illustrious celebrities in modern history and even today. Names such as O’Donnell, O’Neill, O’Reilly, O’Higgins, O’Shea, etc. are found in many parts of Spain. One of the most important streets in Madrid is «calle O’Donnell», named in honour of Leopoldo O’Donnell, a descendent of the O’Donnell clan who was prime minister of Spain. Alejandro O’Reilly was the Spanish governor of Louisiana in America and later commander general of Andalusia and governor of Cadiz. Ambrosio O’Higgins was governor of Chile and later viceroy of Peru. Paloma O’Shea, widow of Emilio Botín, is also a descendent of another Irish clan, the O’Shea clan.