Leabharcham facts for kids
Leabharcham was an important character in an old Irish legend. She was given a special job by King Conchobar of Ulster. Her task was to look after a young girl named Deirdre. Deirdre was kept hidden away until she was old enough to marry the king. This was because a prophecy had been made when Deirdre was born. The prophecy said Deirdre would be the most beautiful woman in Ireland. But it also warned that her beauty would bring trouble and sadness to Ulster.
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Leabharcham's Special Task
Leabharcham was like a foster mother to Deirdre. She raised the girl and taught her many things. Deirdre grew up to be very beautiful, just as the prophecy said. Leabharcham cared for Deirdre for many years. She made sure Deirdre was safe and well-educated.
Deirdre's Hidden Life
Deirdre lived a quiet life away from everyone. This was to protect her from the prophecy. Leabharcham was her constant companion and friend. She helped Deirdre understand the world. When the time came for Deirdre to marry King Conchobar, Leabharcham brought her back. They returned to the king's court at Emain Macha. Today, this place is known as Navan Fort in County Armagh.
A New Love Story Begins
At the king's court, Deirdre saw a handsome young warrior. She asked Leabharcham to tell her who he was. Leabharcham described him as having hair like a raven's wing. His cheeks were red like blood, and his skin was as white as snow. This warrior was Naoise, a hunter and singer at the court. Deirdre and Naoise fell in love. With Naoise and his two brothers, Deirdre decided to escape. They fled to a place called Alba, which is now Scotland.
The Return to Ulster
Years later, Deirdre and Naoise were tricked into returning to Ulster. King Conchobar sent Leabharcham to see Deirdre. He wanted to know if Deirdre was still as beautiful as before. Leabharcham knew the king was angry. She wanted to protect Deirdre and Naoise. So, she told the king that Deirdre had lost all her beauty. She hoped this would stop the king from harming them.
The Sad Outcome of the Legend
However, the king sent another spy. When he learned the truth, a terrible battle began. Sadly, Naoise and his brothers were killed. The king then took Deirdre. The legend says Deirdre was so heartbroken that she ended her own life. This tragic ending fulfilled the prophecy. It showed how Deirdre's beauty brought great sorrow to Ulster.
Leabharcham in Modern Stories
Leabharcham's story lives on in plays and books. She appears as "Lavarcham" in a play called Deirdre of the Sorrows. This play was written by John Millington Synge in 1910. In the play, Leabharcham speaks the very last line. She says, "Deirdre is dead, and Naisi is dead; and if the oaks and stars could die for sorrow, it's a dark sky and a hard and naked earth we'd have this night in Emain." This shows her deep sadness and the lasting impact of the tragedy.
