Talking History offers a distinctive exploration of pivotal political, social and cultural events that have shaped our world, examining the complex figures central to these historical moments. Hosted by Dr Patrick Geoghegan of Trinity College Dublin, this programme interrogates the multifaceted, often contested dimensions of our collective past, illuminating what these historical narratives reveal about contemporary society.

Fionn MacCumhaill
This episode of Talking History examines how Fionn MacCumhaill—a central figure in Irish mythology—exemplifies the complex evolution of cultural narratives through oral and written transmission over centuries. By assembling a panel of distinguished experts including Dr. Natasha Sumner, Dr. Kevin Murray, Brian O'Sullivan, Dr. Sheila Nivorku, and Dr. James McKillop, host Patrick Geoghegan creates a multidimensional exploration of how this legendary figure has been portrayed across diverse texts and traditions.

Fionn's character development through centuries of storytelling reveals how mythological figures function not as static entities but as dynamic cultural resources that evolve to address changing social concerns while maintaining recognisable core identity. The diverse depictions of Fionn across different texts—from heroic warrior to wise leader to comic figure—demonstrate how mythological characters acquire layers of meaning through continuous reinterpretation, reflecting evolving cultural values and concerns.

The discussion of the Fenian Cycle in both Irish and Scots Gaelic literature, with additional insights from Dr. Joseph Flav, highlights how mythological narratives transcend political and linguistic boundaries. This cross-cultural persistence demonstrates how foundational cultural narratives often survive political divisions, creating shared cultural heritage that both unites and distinguishes related cultural groups.

The scholarly approach taken in this episode exemplifies modern engagement with mythological traditions—analytical and contextual rather than devotional, yet still recognising the profound cultural significance of these narratives. This mode of engagement allows contemporary audiences to appreciate mythological traditions not as literal history but as sophisticated cultural systems that continue to provide frameworks for understanding cultural identity and values. The program thus demonstrates how mythological figures like Fionn maintain cultural relevance through continuous reinterpretation that connects traditional narratives to contemporary concerns.