Legends of Ireland

The legend about the red right hand, which we can see on the Irish coat of arms, is said to have come in the following way.

The Vikings from Scandinavia on their way to Ireland, Greenland and Vinland in the 8-10 centuries stopped over in Ireland to fill their boats with food and water. Once on returning home two Viking chiefs decided that one of them would become the king of Ireland. As Vikings did not fight among themselves, it was decided that the one who would first touch Irish soil would become King. They set off in their big boats, the race between the two big boats was very even and each crew did everything to win the race. When they were quite close to the shore Heremon O'Neil, that was the name of the Viking chief that became king, cut off his right hand and threw it on the land, it is due to this that the red right hand had been a part of the coat of arms of Ireland ever since.

Numerous legends are connected with the St. Patrick's name that was known for his wonderful power. Perhaps the best known legend is that he cleared Ireland of snakes. The story goes that one old snake — the king of snakes — resisted him, so he made a box and invited the snake to enter it. The snake refused saying it was too small; but St. Patrick insisted it was quite large enough to be comfortable. At last the snake got into the box to prove that it was too small, at that moment St. Patrick shut the box and threw it into the sea. The other snakes jumped into the water after their king and drowned.

One fact remains: there are no snakes in Ireland and probably, there never were, but the legend lives in the folklore of the Irish.

Answer the following questions:

1. Why did the Vikings from Scandinavia stop on their way to Ireland, Greenland and Vinland?

2. What did two Viking chiefs decide on returning home?

3. What was decided?

4. What race took place?

5. What did Heremon O'Neil do when he was quite close to the shore? Why?

6. What is the legend about St. Patrick?

7. Are there any snakes in Ireland?

8. Do you believe that the fact shown in the text really took place? What makes you think so?

Unit Fifteen London

London is the capital of Great Britain. Today London is a political, economic and commercial centre. It is one of the largest cities in the world and the largest city in Europe. Its population is about 8 million.

London is situated on both banks of the Thames. There are 14 bridges across the Thames.

London is divided into several parts: the City, Westminster, the West End and the East End.

The heart of London is the City. It is an ancient part and financial and business centre. Numerous banks, offices and firms are situated there, including the Bank of England, the Stock Exchange and the Old Bailey. Few people live here, but over a million people come to the City to work. There are some famous ancient buildings within the City. Perhaps the most striking, of them is St Paul's Cathedral, the greatest of English churches. It was built in the 17th century by Sir Christopher Wren. The Tower of London was founded by Julius Caesar and in 1066 rebuilt by William the Conqueror. It was used as a fortress, a royal palace and a prison. Now it is a museum.

Westminster is the historic and governmental part of London. Nearly all English kings and queens have been crowned in Westminster Abbey. Many outstanding statesmen, scientists, writers, poets and painters are buried here: Newton, Darwin Chaucer, Dickens, Kipling, etc. Across the road from Westminster Abbey is Westminster Palace, or the Houses of Parliament, the seat of the British Parliament. The Clock Tower of the Houses of Parliament is famous for its big hour bell, known as "Big Ben". Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the Queen.

The West End is the richest and most beautiful part of London. It is the symbol of wealth and luxury. The best hotels, shops, restaurants, clubs, and theatres are situated there.

Trafalgar Square is the geographical centre of London. It was named in memory of Admiral Nelson's victory in the battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The tall Nelson's Column stands in the middle of the square.

On the north side of Trafalgar Square is the National Portrait Gallery. Not far away is the British Museum — the biggest museum in London. It contains a priceless collection of ancient manuscripts, coins, sculptures, etc, and is famous for its library.

The East End is the poorest district of London. It is the district of docks, factories, poor little houses and narrow streets. Housing conditions in this part of London are not very good. Lots of houses have no modern conveniences. The East End is densely populated by working class families.