Presented by Dr. Eddie McDonald, this seminar delves into the intriguing connections between the Irish hero Cú Chulainn (Culann’s Hound) and Dr McDonald's interactions with an idiosyncratic Indigenous group. Starting with a personal story, Dr. McDonald will outline the Táin Bó Cúailnge (The Cattle Raid of Cooley) and the symbolic traits of Cú Chulainn, reflecting the complex role of dogs in human culture. By examining certain Irish surnames, Dr. McDonald will reveal their links to Cú Chulainn’s characteristics. Drawing on Witzel's (2012) theories, this talk demonstrates how these surnames provide a window into ancient mythologies, showcasing the deep cultural significance of Cú in Irish heritage.

In this seminar, Dr. McDonald seeks to illuminate how mythological narratives and cultural symbols are preserved and transmitted through surnames, and to explore the broader implications of these connections for understanding the interplay between myth, identity, and cultural heritage.