these slight but specific variations in an effort to enlighten the assumptions, underlying significant information about the perceptions of love in Celtic and Roman culture. It would be a serious understatement to suggest that the course of love runs smoother for Oenghus than it does for Psyche. Following his vision, Oenghus is overwhelmed by melancholy, a depression so pervasive that he falls into a generalized malaise. However, when the root of his affliction is diagnosed by Finghin, "you have fallen in love in absence," the assistance of Boann is immediately enlisted. When this is of no use both Daghdhae and Bodhbh willingly join the search. The gods are united in their assistance to Oenghus. On the other hand, the gods are remarkably incapable of influencing mortal behavior. When the girl is identified the gods cannot simply seize her. Oenghus is taken to identify her, which he does and Bodhbh explains, "Even if you do recognize her, I have no power to give her, and you may only see her." To actually obtain the girl, they must enter into a complex bargaining process. First the Daghdhae travels to Ailill, Medhbh and then requests that they give the girl to his son. They explain that they cannot, thus the Daghdhae’s men are forced to attack the fairy hill and capture Ehal Anbhuail, the girl's father. Then they demand that he hand the girl over. He refuses. They then threaten him with death; he confesses he cannot for she has magical powers. Yearly, she alternates between human form and animal form. If Oenghus truly wants her, he must follow certain procedures. Having identified her in human form, he must do the same when she is in the shape of a swan. Then he must request her companionship on her terms. Finally, when he promises, "I pledge your protection," the two are united. Oenghus is enthralled with the mortal, Caer. In fact, their separation makes him ill. Nonetheless, the lovers can only be together if ...
