The ‘grogach’ is a small, hairy half-human half-fairy creature who attaches itself to a family, helping with the chores. He asks only for a bowl of milk as payment. He resembles a little old man and is found in the north of Ireland, usually Co. Antrim.
A ‘banshee’ is a female ancestral spirit who warns members of ancient Irish families of impending death. Any family who does not have a ‘banshee’ of its own is considered ‘upstarts.’
The period from October 31 to November 2 is regarded as one of the most important times of the year and is celebrated with feasting and merrymaking. The Halloween bonfire is to encourage dreams of a future husband or wife.
