Irish Culture example essay topic

During the 1840's in Ireland, there was a terrible potato famine. Many people died. Those who didn't came to America, where the streets were "paved with gold". Or in this case, potatoes. When the Irish arrived here, however, they found the streets were not paved with gold, or even the beloved potato. The store owners and other employers would not hire the Irish because the Irish like to drink aplenty.

It is true that Ireland is home to some of the finest beer in world, and the Irish drink it; often. There are, many alcoholics Irishmen. But there are alcoholic Americans, too. However, when the Irishmen get inebriated, they tell stories and sing traditional Irish songs. To elaborate, the songs and stories are a big part of Ireland's rich culture. The songs are not offensive (most of the time) and express some of the many facets of the culture.

Part of Ireland's history is shown in "Danny Boy", "Roddy Mc Corley" and countless others. However, songs are not the only part of the culture. Leprechauns, fallen heroes, saint, are all parts of stories told in Ireland. The stories have had an impact on American culture, as well. "They " re always after me Lucky Charms", is the catch phrase of a popular "Irish" cereal icon here in the states. Another important aspect is religion.

St. Patrick brought Catholicism to Ireland. He showed the Irish the Trinity in a was that they could understand and easily recognize; the shamrock (three leaves connected to one stem.) For that simple reason, shamrocks are out in full force around St. Patrick's Day. Furthermore, history plays a huge role in the culture now in Ireland. The Irish have seen so many things, new religions, wars about those religions, The Lord of the Dance, and they have learned to deal with each. For religion, most Irishmen converted to Catholicism. The wars were eventually resolved and Michael Flately's popularity eventually wore off.

Additionally, Irish step dancing has been around for a very long time. In traditional step dance, the feet and legs move, while the arms and head remain stationary. Michael Flately took step dancing to the next level. Flatley can step at an amazing rate of 20 "taps" per second.

Not to forget, Flately is not the only Irishman famous in America. James Bond was Irish, or at least one of the actors who played him is. Along with Pierce Bros non, other famous Irishmen include Colin Farrell (Phone booth) and Liam Neeson (Schindler's List) The movies that these Irishmen have been in help to entertain, or even change, us Americans. Despite excessive drinking and smoking, the Irish are good people from a great country. Irish culture is perhaps the richest in the world, with songs, stories, a great history, fabulous actors, dancing, and a tiny leprechaun selling a delicious cereal. Irish culture flourishes today and will continue to until the end of time.