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Grotesquely ugly super-natural figure in Scottish Gaelic folklore, counterparts of which are known in Irish tradition. The fachan is a variety of the better-known athach, while the dìreach is a more particular fachan. The fearsome creature has but one leg from its haunch, one hand protruding from its chest, one eye, and rough, spiky hair; cf. the Irish FER CAILLE; FOMORIANS. There were no creatures haunting lonely gorges and lochs that credulous peasants dreaded more to meet. Sometimes classed as a giant. See also BÒCAN; LUIDEAG.
From: fachan in A Dictionary of Celtic Mythology »
Subjects: Religion.
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