The Wooing of Becfola

Name: The Wooing of Becfola
Author: James Stephens

The narrative unfolds in ancient Ireland during the reign of Dermod, the High King, who is childless and has fostered many young princes. Among them is Crimthann, the favored son of the King of Leinster. During a hunting expedition, Dermod and Crimthann encounter a mysterious woman driving a chariot, who captures the king's attention. Despite her refusal to disclose her name or origins, Dermod is enchanted and proposes marriage, leading to a hasty union. The woman, dubbed Becfola, the "Dowerless," becomes queen but struggles with her identity and happiness, feeling incomplete without Crimthann. Becfola's affection for Crimthann grows, leading her to contemplate an escape from Tara to be with him. One morning, she secretly prepares to retrieve belongings left behind, disregarding the king's warnings about traveling on a Sunday, which he believes brings bad luck. As she departs, she inadvertently crosses into the realm of Faery, losing her memories of Crimthann. In Faery, Becfola encounters a handsome young man, Flann, who captivates her. They share a brief but intense connection, culminating in a battle for the lordship of an island, where Flann emerges victorious but mourns the loss of his brothers. Becfola, enchanted by Flann, is advised to return to Tara until he can claim his rightful place. Upon her return, Dermod greets her with concern, unaware of her adventures. However, clerics arrive with news of a transgression involving Becfola and Flann, revealing her presence during the Sunday battle. The king, enraged and heartbroken, confronts her, leading to a moment of truth where Becfola admits her feelings for Flann. In a final act of defiance and desire, she leaves Dermod and Tara behind, disappearing from the world of men, never to be seen again. The story explores themes of love, identity, and the consequences of choices made in pursuit of happiness.

By James Stephens · First published 1928 · Genre: Fantasy, Mythology, Romance · 5 chapters · 6,022 words

First lines

We do not know where Becfola came from. Nor do we know for certain where she went to. We do not even know her real name, for the name Becfola, "Dowerless" or "Small-dowered," was given to her as a nickname. This only is certain, that she disappeared from the world we know of, and that she went to a realm where even conjecture may not follow her.

What this Textopian page supports

The Wooing of Becfola is listed on Textopian as a novella by James Stephens, dated 1928 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novella
Author: James Stephens
Date: 1928 CE
Language: English
Genres: Fantasy, Mythology, Romance, Adventure, Historical Fiction
Length: 6,022 words
Structure: 5 chapters, 199 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Fantasy — The story involves elements of magic and the supernatural, including the realm of Faery and the transformation of characters.
Mythology — The narrative draws heavily on Irish mythology, featuring a High King of Ireland and themes of fate and destiny.
Romance — The plot centers around romantic relationships, particularly the love triangle between Becfola, Dermod, and Crimthann.
Adventure — The characters embark on journeys that involve danger and exploration, including Becfola's travels and encounters.