Partner Intro - Ryan

The image Ryan selected is a picture of what looks like an inlet somewhere on the island. Inlet or not, it is a beautiful picture. Although Ryan does not describe where the picture was taken, he does make a very important point. The entire island is full of beautiful landscapes that have inspired a countless number of people throughout history. It almost seems like the island has a sort of magical quality to it. From the picture alone, I believe that Ryan feels that Ireland is a lovely place with some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world located on it.

Ryan chose to use the poem "Our Weeping Island" by Elizabeth O'Hylan in his blog. The poem seems to focus on a recent battle that involved a majority of the island. The battle is not described, only the results of it. It is similar to several Norse poems I have read but it has some qualities that are not Nordic (which I am assuming to be Celtic). Ryan says he chose this poem because he wants to know more about Celtic traditions and their unique pagan religion.

Ryan is taking this class because he has Irish ancestors and a large interest in Celtic and Irish history, society, and culture. By taking this class, Ryan hopes to learn more about his Irish ancestry as well as how Ireland's culture has developed. From his blog I also believe he is rather interested in Irish music.