Gae Bolga

Gae Bolga is Cu Chullain's magic spear, also known as the Spear of Light.

History

Cu Chullain used the Gae Bolga to strike the Stone of Destiny in half when it would not accept his friend, Lugaid Red-Stripe, as High King of Ireland.

Characteristics

The Gae Bolga looked like a bolt of lightning, and returned to his hand when it was thrown. He used it to defeat the Banshee, in both battles with her. When not in use, it reverts to the form of an ordinary stick. ("The Hound of Ulster")

Real World Background

In Irish legend, the Gae Bolga was a magical spear which Cu Chullain received from his tutor in arms, the warrior woman Scathach. When hurled at an enemy, it struck him in the stomach, and opened up thirty barbs to increase its damage. The "Spear of Light" appearance of the Gae Bolga in Gargoyles may have been inspired by the fact that, in the legends, Cu Chullain's father was Lugh, the god of light.

See also

• Gae Bolga at Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia