Tracing the Roots of the Leprechaun 

Saint Patrick’s Day is a holiday with Irish roots, celebrated for nearly 400 years: often marked by parades, dancing, music, and feasting. A central theme of the holiday is the little, green-coated tricksters known as leprechauns. Leprechauns are typically depicted as bearded men dressed in green, wearing a hat, vest, and buckled shoes. They are known for being elusive and for guarding a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. In modern times, leprechauns have become fun characters associated with Irish culture.

“In elementary school, my teacher read us kids’ books about leprechauns around Saint Patrick’s Day,” DBHS sophomore Jizel Jean said.

Leprechauns go back to the 8th century. This holiday character evolved from luchorpán and clúrachán, two mythical creatures in Irish Folktale. Luchorpán means small body, and clúrachán is a mischievous fairy in Irish folklore known for drinking and a tendency to haunt breweries, pubs, and wine cellars. A mix of these is what led to the new concept of leprechauns.

Stories of leprechauns were spread abroad about 180 years ago during the Great Famine in Ireland. Starvation, poverty, and disease forced Irish citizens to leave their country, bringing their stories and culture with them. In an earlier story, leprechauns were water creatures captured by an Irish king who granted him three wishes for their freedom. In modern folklore, leprechauns will grant you three wishes if you find their pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. 

“If a leprechaun gave me three wishes I’d wish for infinite money, infinite health, and world peace,” DBHS sophomore Maricel Vargas said. 

One of the most popular modern representations of leprechauns in the media is the Lucky Charms mascot. The University of Notre Dame has a well-known leprechaun mascot dating back to the early 1960s. Leprechauns have come a long way from what they were in the 8th century. They have become one of the main symbols of Irish culture and remain an iconic symbol of Irish culture and heritage.  

Written by Camila Castro  | Graphic Designed by Camila Castro 

Published March 3, 2025 | ePathfinder | Feature