The narrative unfolds across multiple realms, exploring themes of love, loss, and the consequences of desire. The story begins with Conn the Hundred Fighter, the High King of Ireland, mourning the death of his beloved wife, Eithne. In his grief, he encounters Becuma, a beautiful woman banished from the Many-Coloured Land for abandoning her husband, Labraid. Becuma's punishment is severe; she is forced to return to the mortal realm, where her beauty captivates Conn, leading him to forget his late wife. As Conn marries Becuma, his son Art is sent away for a year to avoid conflict with his new stepmother. During Art's absence, Ireland suffers from famine, prompting Conn to seek a solution. He learns that the land's blight is tied to Becuma's presence and that the blood of a sinless child can restore prosperity. Conn embarks on a quest to find such a child, ultimately discovering Segda, the son of a virgin, on an enchanted island. However, the magicians of Ireland demand Segda's death to save the land, leading to a moral dilemma. Segda, willing to sacrifice himself for Ireland, is saved at the last moment by his mother, who reveals that the true cause of the land's suffering is Becuma. The narrative explores Becuma's internal struggle, as her pride and desire for revenge against Art manifest in destructive ways. Art, upon returning, is manipulated by Becuma into a series of challenges, including a quest to find Delvcaem, the daughter of Morgan. He faces numerous trials, ultimately defeating Morgan and freeing Delvcaem. Their union signifies hope and renewal for Ireland, contrasting sharply with Becuma's fate. Ultimately, Delvcaem's power surpasses Becuma's, leading to the latter's banishment once more. The story concludes with Becuma's departure from Ireland, leaving behind a legacy of turmoil, while Art and Delvcaem symbolize a new beginning. The narrative intricately weaves themes of love, sacrifice, and the consequences of one's actions across the realms of existence, highlighting the interplay between personal desires and the greater good.
By James Stephens · First published 1928 · Genre: Fantasy, Mythology, Adventure · 10 chapters