Sencha mac Ailella
Ulster's judge and its most eloquent man, who bids to foster Cúchulainn.
Overview
When the unborn Derdriu screams in her mother's womb at Fedlimid's house, Sencha orders that no one move and the woman be brought in. In the argument over who will rear Cúchulainn he claims to be strong, skilful, noble and nimble in combat, a sage who advises the king before he speaks, and Morann's judgment gives him the boy's training in eloquence and oratory. In the Táin Fergus describes him to Ailill and Medb as the most eloquent man in Ulster, sitting facing Conchobor at Slemain Midi.
I am judge of all combats before battle-proud Conchobor. I settle all judgments in Ulster, and offend no one.
Connections
Related characters
- Conchobor (advises him before he speaks)
- Cúchulainn (bids to foster him and is given the teaching of eloquence)
- Fedlimid mac Daill (stops the drinking at his house when the unborn Derdriu screams)
- Morann (judge who gives him the boy's oratory)
Places
- Emain Macha (where he makes his claim)
- Slemain Midi
Appears in chapters
Appears in
- The Ulstermen quarrel over who should rear the infant Sétanta, and Morann gives judgment at Emain that Conchobor should have him, with Sencha, Blai Briuga, Fergus, Amargin and Conall Cernach to help. At Emain Macha. In How Cúchulainn was Begotten.
- A troop of three thousand tears off its clothes and digs a mound of sods for its leader to sit on; Fergus names the leader as Conchobor, with Sencha facing him and Cúscraid at his father's hand. At Slemain Midi. In Chapter XIII: The Companies Advance.