Leanan Sidhe
Leanan Sidhe
The Fairy Lover
Also known as:
Leanhaun shee
Origin:
Ireland; Isle of Man
Classification:
Sidhe
The Leanan Sidhe, translated as āFairy loverā, are beautiful Fairies who haunt wells and springs in search of human lovers. Should they accept her love, they are hers forever. Unfortunately, thatās usually not very long, at least not among the living.
The Leanan Sidheās lovers arenāt long-lived but there is compensation: the Leanan Sidhe magically infuses them with poetry and literary skills. The Leanan Sidhe is blamed for the brief lives of many of Irelandās greatest poets but credited with bestowing or enhancing talent.
It is not entirely clear whether the Leanan Sidhe consciously, vampirically saps the life essence from her lovers; whether contact with her simply proves too life-draining for mortals or whether the Leanan Sidhe brings her lovers to live with her in an Afterlife.
Manifestation:
Leanan Sidhe manifest as women; white does or fawns
SEE ALSO:
- Aisha Qandisha;
- Fairy;
- Fairy, Green;
- Gunlod;
- Sidhe;
- Vampire
SOURCE:
Encyclopedia of Spirits: The Ultimate Guide to the Magic of Fairies, Genies, Demons, Ghosts, Gods & Goddesses– Written by :Judika Illes Copyright Ā© 2009 by Judika Illes.
