Dissertation title: Fairy Beliefs in Modern Coastal County Sligo,  Ireland

This study examined issues of cultural identity and modernity, and  the anthropology of spirituality, sacred places, and spiritual  tourism, by conducting ethnographic research on fairy beliefs in  contemporary Ireland. Irish folk belief has traditionally identified a spirit world inhabited by beings, collectively referred to as fairies. Belief in these beings, and an array of associated cultural practices, was once widespread. My research sought to determine the  prevalence of these traditional beliefs among modern Irish people, as well as differences in belief associated with variables that  included age, gender, and religion.

 I conducted eight weeks of ethnographic fieldwork during June-August 2008 in and around Sligo Town in County Sligo, Ireland. I selected County Sligo as a research site because earlier studies identified it as a region where belief in the Irish spirit world persisted more strongly than in other parts of the country. My primary research methodology was to conduct structured and unstructured interviews, complemented by visual site surveys. I spoke with approximately 50 Sligo residents and visitors to the area. Additional research was conducted at the Gillighan’s World Fairy Park, which is a localtourist destination built as a tribute to the fairies.

 Research indicated that very few Irish people in the Sligo area  continue to believe in the literal existence of invisible spirit beings (fairies). However, research did reveal a belief in a power associated with sites identified as “fairy forts,” which are natural  features of the landscape or the remains of ancient burials or   dwellings. These beliefs led to a taboo against intruding on,   altering, or destroying these “forts.” This suggests that a respect  for these “sacred” sites continues to be common, despite the decline in beliefs in fairy beings.

Outline of Studies:
 Major: Anthropology

 Educational Career:
 B.A. in Anthropology, 2005, University of Central Florida

 Committee in Charge:
 Dr. Elayne Zorn, Chair
 Dr. Kristin Congdon
 Dr. Ty Matejowsky

 Approved for distribution by Dr. Elayne Zorn, Committee Chair, on 
 September 25, 2009.

 The public is welcome to attend.