Tochmarc

Tochmarc is an Old Irish term meaning "conception" or "pregnancy," and it commonly appears in medieval Irish literature, particularly within the corpus of mythological and legendary tales. The term is often associated with stories involving divine or heroic figures and their genealogies, emphasizing the cultural importance of lineage and inheritance in Irish tradition.

In Irish mythology, Tochmarc is also the name of figures and narratives. One notable example is Tochmarc Étaíne, a medieval Irish tale from the Ulster Cycle. The story revolves around the relationships and conflicts among royal families, involving themes of love, betrayal, and political intrigue. It recounts the journey of the hero Conchobar mac Nessa and his interactions with Étaín, a magical maiden.

The motif of Tochmarc extends beyond individual tales, symbolizing the concept of conception and the continuation of kinship lines, often infused with supernatural elements. These stories frequently blend myth, history, and legend to reflect societal values and beliefs about origins.

Overall, Tochmarc plays a significant role in Irish literary tradition, embodying themes of fertility, lineage, and the divine right of kings. Its stories have contributed to the rich tapestry of Irish mythology and have influenced later Celtic literature and cultural identity.