Inisir (ˈi.ni.siːr)
"Before the Clarati came, the Inisir were the most numerous people on Ynys. All of the south was Inisir, and everything east of the River Severin as far north as the Rheged border. We are sadly diminished in these times."
The Inisir are one of the Dhewen Peoples of the Ynys Archipelago, who live mostly in southern Ynys and Ynysow Syllan. The kingdoms of Dumnonia and Elmet are primarily Inisir, and there are large populations in Creoda, Gewisse, and Mathrafal. They are most closely related to the Ynyswr people of western Ynys, and share many of the same cultural values and religions beliefs. During the Age of Warlocks, much of the territory once claimed by the Inisir tuthoeġ were taken over by mercenaries from the Volksland.
Physical Appearance
The Insir are humans known for their compact build and pale skin. Their hair color ranges from black to blonde, with dark hair being the most common. Their eyes are typically light colored, with blue and grey most often encountered. Their heights are similar to other human ethnicities, with males averaging around five foot seven, and women a few inches shorter.
Common Dress & Style
Inisir men usually wear a tunic of wool or linen, belted at the waist, over a pair of striped or checkered trousers. Women wear dresses of the same materials, with long sleeves and sometimes with an overdress. In cold or harsh weather, both men and women will add a cloak or cape for warmth and protection. Clothing is often decorated with woven or embroidered patterns, and secured with a decorative brooch. Other jewelry may also be worn, although sparingly - it is considered tasteless to wear too many accessories.
Men keep their hair at shoulder length, and will usually grow a beard or mustache. Women's hair is grown long and is frequently braided. Married women normally cover their hair with a scarf or kerchief, and may have their hair coiled close to their head instead of hanging down.
Social Structure
The core of Inisir society is the tuthoeġ, groups of related families following a single leader, or Pennaeth. These leaders and their immediate families make up the noble class within Inisir kingdoms, and pledge fealty to a king or prince who rules over the entire nation. Most Inisir owe allegiance to their tuthoġ first and their kingdom second, although this can vary from place to place and between individuals.
Religion & Folklore
Like most the other Dhewen Peoples, the Inisir worship the Ellyll, particularly those bound to southern Ynys and Ynysow Syllan. Their priests follow the leadership of the druids on Ynys Dywyll, and acknowledge Gwynn ap Lludd as the ruler over all the Ellyll. The most important festival to the Inisir is Calan Tan, held at the beginning of summer halfway between the spring equinox and summer solstice. They mark the celebration with bonfires and feasting, as well as athletic and musical competitions. While all of the Ellyll are honored at Calan Tan, the Inisir pay special attention to the local deities of fertility during this festival. Many communities relax rules around sexual behavior during Calan Tan, and children conceived during the festival are considered gifts from the gods.
Culture
Major language groups and dialects
Foods & Cuisine
The Inisir are known for their hearty and flavorful dishes, which often feature local ingredients such as seafood, game, and root vegetables. One traditional Inisir dish is cullen skink, a creamy soup made with smoked haddock. The Inisir also make a variety of baked goods, such as oatcakes and shortbread. Beverages such as ale and whiskey are common, and communities will often compete over who produces the best.
A King, or a Brenin?
While most of the Inisir have adopted the idea of a King, some hold to an older title of Brenin instead. To those who use it, a Brenin has a different set of responsibilities than a King, and fewer privileges. A Brenin is tied to the land as much as to the people, and is considered a servant as much as a ruler. While there are those who use the title of King who fit this description as well, the choice to call oneself Brenin represents a commitment to these ideals.
Related Articles
This article was originally written for Spooktober 2024. You can find all of my Spooktober Articles at Spooktober Central.
This article was originally written for Spooktober 2023. You can find all of my Spooktober Articles at Spooktober Central.
I really like the distinction they have between a King and a Brenin.
Explore Etrea | March of 31 Tales
Thanks!