The idea of songs composed retrospectively eulogising heros of the past is interesting as a form of 'folk propaganda' I think - especially as it's almost echoing the tradition of doing same with ancient heros of Irish mythology. So in as much as they might not represent a genuine take on events of the time, they can possibly be seen in light of how the past is intentionally drawn upon to inspire action in the present, and indeed in light of a long tradition of doing the same?

I learned 'Bold Fenian Men' (Down by the Glenside) yesterday, and I found that propagandist element very intriguing. Along with the notion that these men were somehow 'other', in as much as "*There* was a race of men that were so brave and beautiful that *we* could never possibly match their kind again, but nevertheless we might find their image one to inspire us to attempt to emulate them", so to speak.