A leprechaun is a fairy-like creature from Irish mythology (Irish Gaelic: leipreachán). They are lone critters who are frequently naughty. Leprechauns spend their time creating shoes or stashing their money in secret pots of gold at the end of rainbows. If humans manage to catch a leprechaun, they could give them a wish.
The Origins of the Legend of Leprechauns
Leprechauns are said to have overpowered the Tuatha de Danann people, forcing them to live underground. According to legend, Fergus mac Léti, King of Ulster, wakes up after dozing off on the seashore. He finds himself being pulled into the water by three “lchorpáin.” His captors release him in return for three wishes after he defeats them.
The Leprechaun’s Appearance
Leprechauns typically appear as older fellows wearing a red or green cloak, and sporting a red or white beard. The leprechaun are shown as being no taller than a young child and perched on a toadstool. According to W. B. Yeats, the “trooping fairies” wear green, whereas the lonely fairies, like the leprechaun, dress in red. The leprechaun’s garment features a total of seven rows, each with seven buttons. Those on the western coast wear a frieze jacket, while in Ulster, the creature wears a bicorne. When he is up to mischief he leaps onto a wall and spins, standing on the point of the hat with his heels raised.