The Morrigan is currently the most famous Irish goddess, functioning as a dark alter ego to Bridget, embodying violence, sex, shapeshifting, and sorcery. Her international popularity, especially in America, has led many to worship her as a powerful spiritual being, representing the 'scary side of female power' in an age exploring humanity's limits.
Hutton: The Name Game - 'Nightmare Queen'
The etymology of 'The Morrigan' is disputed, with potential meanings ranging from 'great queen' to 'phantom queen.' However, the most fitting translation, considering her association with frightening superhuman females, is 'nightmare queen,' aligning with her role as a terrifying Irish goddess.
Hutton: The Outer Circle - Generic Battle Spirits
The Morrigan was associated with an 'outer penumbra' of generic, terrifying battle spirits like 'wafa,' 'banana,' 'bo kak,' 'the Gh,' and 'demons of the air.' These airborne beings swarmed battlefields, anticipating and enjoying slaughter, much like scavenging birds, but without the specific roles of Norse Valkyries or Roman Furies.
Sir Andrew McFarlane: The Evolving Landscape of Family Law
Family law has seen substantial evolution over the past four decades, driven by legislative changes like the Children Act 1988 and the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, alongside judge-led developments. However, society's changing relationship structures necessitate continuous adaptation to ensure the law remains relevant and effective.
Sir Andrew McFarlane: Prioritizing Children in Private Law
The current system fails separating parents by only engaging them when they seek court orders, missing opportunities for early support and dispute resolution. Initiatives like the Family Solutions Group's recommendations and government policy aim to provide information, advice, and mediation outside court to keep families out of the arena.
Modernizing Adoption: A Centenary Rethink
The current adoption model, established a century ago, is ill-suited for today's world. It needs reform to acknowledge that adopted children often have existing knowledge of their birth families and live in a digital age where maintaining connections is easier. The focus should shift to safely facilitating enduring relationships for adopted children to foster a stronger sense of identity and belonging.
