We will begin our journey by exploring the key features of early Irish society, as described by D.A. Binchy, one of the foremost scholars on the Brehon laws.

Discover how the tribal system was a natural progression from the family unit, how kinship ties and shared land were essential, and how chieftains were elected for their legitimacy from the wider tribal unit.

Lesson Outcomes:

• Understand the key features of the tribal system in early Irish society
• Recognize the importance of kinship ties and shared land for the tribe’s benefit
• Discuss the election of chieftains and its significance in early Irish society

Additional Materials:

• Lesson Transcript: The Tribe and The Family – an Tuath agus an Fine