Deirdre & Naoise
Ireland's oldest sorrow
Prophesied to be the most beautiful woman in Ireland and a cause of ruin, Deirdre flees with her beloved Naoise to avoid marrying the old king Conchobar; the king betrays them, kills Naoise, and Deirdre takes her own life.
01Why it matters
It is the great romantic tragedy of Celtic mythology, "Deirdre of the Sorrows," a foundation of Irish theater.
02The conflict
The prophecy and King Conchobar's possessiveness.
03The iconic moment
Two yew trees that grow from their graves and intertwine forever.
04What survived
"Deirdre of the Sorrows" by J. M. Synge and Yeats.
05Frequently asked questions
Who were Deirdre & Naoise?
Prophesied to be the most beautiful woman in Ireland and a cause of ruin, Deirdre flees with her beloved Naoise to avoid marrying the old king Conchobar; the king betrays them, kills Naoise, and Deirdre takes her own life.
Why is the story of Deirdre & Naoise famous?
It is the great romantic tragedy of Celtic mythology, "Deirdre of the Sorrows," a foundation of Irish theater.
How does the story of Deirdre & Naoise end?
Two yew trees that grow from their graves and intertwine forever. "Deirdre of the Sorrows" by J. M. Synge and Yeats.
Is the story of Deirdre & Naoise real?
Yes, Deirdre & Naoise is based on real people and events.
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