Diarmuid

Also known as: Diarmuid of the Fianna / Diarmuid of the bright face and the bright sword / Diarmuid the brave / Diarmuid, grandson of Duibhne / Diarmuid-na-man / Grandson of Duibhne / the Hawk of Ess Ruadh / the comely / the hardy · Family: Fianna · Role: warrior · First appears: The Gods · The Ever-living Living Ones · Manannan

Diarmuid was born to Donn (father of Diarmuid) and Crochnuit, grandson of Duibhne. When his father was banished from the Fianna, Angus Og took him to Brugh na Boinne to rear him; Manannan taught him the use of weapons, and he also learned from Angus. At full strength he was given a place among the Fianna, where he fought its enemies and became known for his great deeds. Youth gave him a love-spot that made every woman who saw him love him.

In his adventures, Diarmuid killed the Red-Haired Man and ended an enchantment, fought the Enchanter, and helped free the Fianna from enchantment by killing Miodac and the Three Kings. He also encountered the daughter of King Under-Wave: after healing her, his love for her was gone, and he returned to Finn and the Fianna. He taught Osgar feats of arms and skill, and the two were dear friends.

When Grania fled Teamhair, Diarmuid first refused to take her because she was promised to Finn, but left with her after she placed him under Druid bonds. During their flight, he repeatedly faced Finn’s pursuit and fought the Green Champions sent after him; Angus Og helped the pair escape, while Muadhan travelled with them as Diarmuid’s servant. At Dubhros, Diarmuid made an agreement with Searbhan Lochlannach, then fought to protect Grania and their companions. Finn would not grant him peace, but Osgar vowed to protect him, and Diarmuid escaped with Osgar.

After Diarmuid and Grania made peace with Finn, they settled at Rath Grania, where Grania bore him four sons and a daughter. Later, on the hunt for the Boar of Beinn Gulbain, the boar fatally wounded Diarmuid, though he killed it with his sword hilt. Finn brought him water, but Diarmuid died as Finn reached him. Angus Og took his body to Brugh na Boinne, while Grania mourned him and gave their sons his arms and armour, urging them to avenge his death on Finn.