In the Irish legend “The Wooing of Étaín,” the most beautiful young woman of the Tuatha Dé Danann is offered in recompense for an injury to the god, Midir. After one happy year of marriage, Midir brings Étaín to his home where his first wife, Fuamnach, fueled by jealousy, turns Étaín into a fly. Fuamnach raises a storm to batter Étaín across the island as punishment for Midir’s betrayal. After one thousand years of torment, Étaín drowns in a woman’s cup, is swallowed, and reborn as a mortal woman, unaware of her past divine life. She is happily married off to the High King of Ireland until her immortal first husband finds her again and seeks to win her back through magic and guile. Her tale ends with a joyful reunion and restoration of her memories and immortality. In truth, her story affords her no voice or choice and an often omitted continuation of her story has a tragic and twisted ending.
My latest work reshapes the ancient tale that gave little autonomy or wisdom to its female protagonist. With a diverse cast of entertaining and emotional characters, this tale of self-discovery draws from my research and experience studying in Dublin. It reimagines Etain’s second life in a modern Irish setting, giving her a chance to make her own choices, face her own mistakes, and grow into a woman worthy of legend.
