Author
Lady Gregory
1852-1932
Lady Gregory (1852-1932) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Lady Gregory
Gods and Fighting Men The story of the Tuatha de Danaan and of the Fianna of Ireland, arranged and put into English by Lady Gregory
"Gods and Fighting Men" by Lady Gregory is a historical account, specifically a collection of Irish mythological tales, likely written in the early 20th century. The work delves into the legends and lore surrounding the Tuatha de Danaan and the Fianna of Ireland, featuring significant characters such as Finn and his warriors. It aims to retell and preserve the rich tapestry of Irish myth, highlighting themes of heroism, enchantment, and the interplay between gods and mortals. The opening of "Gods and Fighting Men" introduces readers to the mystical land of Ireland during the arrival of the Tuatha de Danaan, a race of god-like beings. The narrative begins with a vivid description of their ethereal journey from the northern cities, bringing with them magical treasures and an emphasis on their connection to nature and the arts. As they encounter the Firbolgs already inhabiting the land, tensions rise, leading to a series of battles. The tale unfolds intricately, establishing a backdrop of magic, divine ancestry, and martial valor as the characters engage in political maneuvering and conflict, setting the stage for the epic confrontations and legendary exploits to come.
Seven Short Plays
"Seven Short Plays" by Lady Gregory is a collection of theatrical works written in the early 20th century. This compilation features a variety of plays that often reflect Irish life and social dynamics, focusing on characters like Bartley Fallon and Jack Smith, who navigate misunderstandings and conflicts within their community. The plays capture humor, pathos, and the complexities of human relationships, all set against a distinctly Irish backdrop. The opening portion introduces the first play, "Spreading the News," which unfolds at a fair in a rural Irish town. Various characters engage in lively dialogue, revealing their personal struggles, aspirations, and the small-town gossip that permeates their lives. Bartley Fallon expresses his woes about missed opportunities, while Jack Smith's singing adds a layer of local color. The tension escalates with a reported fight, leading to various interpretations of events spreading among the townsfolk, ultimately culminating in a web of rumors and misunderstandings that reflect the vibrant but turbulent dynamics of village life.
Our Irish Theatre: A chapter of autobiography
"Our Irish Theatre: A chapter of autobiography" by Lady Gregory is an autobiographical account written in the early 20th century. The memoir delves into the author's experiences and contributions to the establishment of the Irish Theatre movement, highlighting her collaboration with prominent figures like W.B. Yeats and Edward Martyn. The text serves as both a personal reflection and a historical account of the challenges and triumphs faced while striving to create a national theatre in Ireland. At the start of the narrative, Lady Gregory recounts her motivations for writing and her interactions with notable individuals who influenced her journey in theatre. She reflects on her initial discussions with Yeats about forming an Irish theatre, the fundraising efforts that followed, and the various plays they planned to produce. The opening chapters illustrate the sense of urgency and hope that surrounded the theatrical movement, while also hinting at the obstacles they faced, not only in securing a venue but also in navigating public reception and criticism of their works.
The Kiltartan Poetry Book; prose translations from the Irish
"The Kiltartan Poetry Book; prose translations from the Irish by Lady Gregory" is a collection of prose translations of traditional Irish poetry, likely written in the early 20th century. The book showcases a range of poignant themes central to Irish culture and history, encapsulating elements of love, grief, bravery, and folklore. Lady Gregory, a prominent figure in the Irish Literary Revival, seeks to preserve and communicate the richness of Irish poetic heritage through her translations, reflecting the deep emotional ties between the people and their land. In this collection, Gregory presents a variety of poems that explore the complexities of human emotions, often drawing from historical and legendary figures in Irish folklore. From heartfelt laments for lost loved ones to celebratory praises of beauty and valor, each piece resonates with a sense of yearning and cultural identity. Characters such as Cuchulain, Deirdre, and Oisin feature prominently, embodying the struggles and romantic ideals of their time. The lyrical quality and rich imagery of the poems reflect a deep reverence for nature and the past, making "The Kiltartan Poetry Book" not only a tribute to the Irish spirit but also an invitation to readers to engage with the profound narratives woven into their cultural tapestry.
Arabi and his household
"Arabi and His Household" by Lady Gregory is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book explores the life and character of Ahmed Arabi, an Egyptian leader known for his role in the nationalist movement against British rule in Egypt during the 1880s. Through her narrative, Lady Gregory seeks to humanize Arabi and his family, shedding light on their experiences during a turbulent period of Egyptian history and providing insights into the complexities of colonial rule. In this work, Lady Gregory narrates her personal encounters with Arabi and the dynamics of his household, including his wife and mother, illustrating their humanity amid political strife. She recounts Arabi's rise from a simple officer to a prominent figure in Egyptian politics, highlighting his genuine intentions and moral character in contrast to the negative portrayals propagated by British officials and media. The story touches upon themes of loyalty, family, and national identity, offering a glimpse into the personal challenges faced by Arabi and his loved ones as they navigated the sociopolitical turmoil of their time. Overall, the narrative serves as both a tribute to Arabi's legacy and a critique of the colonial perspectives that sought to vilify him.
Poets and Dreamers: Studies and translations from the Irish
"Poets and Dreamers: Studies and Translations from the Irish" by Lady Gregory is a collection of literary studies and translations written in the early 20th century. The book explores the rich tapestry of Irish poetry and folklore, particularly focusing on the works of the renowned poet Raftery. Through a blend of historical context and biographical details, it delves into themes of national identity, culture, and the lyrical expressions of Irish people. The opening of the work introduces readers to Raftery through the dialogues of two elderly women reminiscing about their encounters with the poet. They engage in a spirited debate over Raftery’s prowess as a blind bard compared to another local poet, Callinan, while also reflecting on Raftery’s legacy as one who captured the soul of Irish life through his poetry. The chapter outlines Raftery's life, his wandering existence, the nature of his poetry, and his connection with the common folk, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of his emotional and cultural significance within Irish literature.
The Kiltartan History Book
"The Kiltartan History Book" by Lady Gregory is a historical account that encompasses the lore, legends, and historical events of Ireland, likely written in the early 20th century. The book presents a narrative rich with anecdotes that explore the cultural, political, and social history of Ireland, drawing on folk traditions and personal recollections. It covers a wide time span from ancient Irish history through significant events like the Anglo-Irish conflicts, the Famine, and the rise of figures such as Daniel O'Connell and Charles Stewart Parnell. Throughout the text, Lady Gregory gathers a multitude of stories that depict various aspects of Irish life and its complex past. The tales range from the ancient times through the struggles with the English Crown, reflecting the resilience and richness of Irish culture. Characters such as the Goban, a legendary builder, and Daniel O'Connell, a pivotal figure in Irish politics, exemplify the themes of wit, bravery, and national identity. The anecdotes serve not only as a history lesson but also embody the oral traditions that characterize the essence of Irish storytelling. The work offers insights into the values, struggles, and humor found within the Irish spirit, providing readers with a vivid portrait of a nation entwined with its history and folklore.
Three Wonder Plays
"Three Wonder Plays" by Lady Gregory is a collection of dramatic works likely produced during the early 20th century. This play showcases elements of Irish folklore and mythology, centering on themes such as fate, love, and the intertwining of human experiences with fantastical creatures. The narrative revolves around the Princess Nuala, who faces a dire prophecy concerning her fate with a fearsome dragon, adding tension and urgency to her quest for love and destiny. The opening of "Three Wonder Plays" introduces the characters in a lively manner, with a focus on the interactions between the King, the Queen, and Princess Nuala, amidst a humorous exchange about food and relationships. The King grapples with the prophecy of his daughter being devoured by a dragon, shared by Dall Glic, the blind wise man. This foreboding revelation leads the Queen to feel compelled to marry off Nuala quickly to ensure her safety. The whimsical dialogue highlights the characters’ distinct personalities while setting the stage for the unfolding drama surrounding the Princess’s fate and the peculiar dynamics of royal life.
New Comedies
"New Comedies" by Lady Gregory is a collection of theatrical plays produced in the early 20th century. The works featured delve into everyday themes and the lives of ordinary people, exploring social and familial dynamics through a humorous lens. The opening play, "The Bogie Men," introduces characters like Darby Melody and Taig O'Harragha, who are both chimney sweeps discussing their linings while preparing to meet their wealthy relatives. The beginning of "New Comedies" sets the stage for the intricacies of Darby and Taig's lives as they anxiously await visits from their affluent cousins. Their dialogue reveals a comical blend of insecurity and aspiration as they reflect on past familial comparisons and the pressures of social class. The exchange highlights their contrasting worldviews, with Taig dreaming of wealth and grandeur while Darby feels the weight of lowly expectations. As the two characters prepare for their meeting, the humor interwoven with social critique hints at deeper themes of identity and belonging that resonate throughout the collection.
The Kiltartan wonder book
"The Kiltartan wonder book" by Lady Gregory is a collection of Irish folk tales written in the early 20th century. Drawn from the Kiltartan oral tradition and told in a chatty, fireside voice, these wonder tales brim with enchantments, quests, giants, clever girls and foolish boys, and animals that speak or save the day. Readers meet a stream of different heroes—a simple prince on a talking mule, the bewitching Beswarragal, the Fish’s son, Shawneen, and others—in self‑contained episodes rich with magic objects, tests, and trickery. The opening of this collection strings together brisk, storyteller-led tales: a “Fool” prince chases a singing bird, rides a miraculous mule, wins a king’s daughter, and breaks the mule’s enchantment; Beswarragal, a swan‑maiden, is lost and found through trials, a magic horse, and a fight with the Queen of the Black Wood; the Fish’s son, aided by a white hound and a hawk, slays Croagcill to free a princess. Shawneen gains giant‑won treasures, kills a dragon in the Black Duke’s armor, dies to a hag, and is revived by his brother Shamus; a man marries a mermaid who later returns to the sea, leaving a child and a pot of gold; a loyal Bullockeen guides a boy through battles with red, white, and green bulls before dying and gifting him great strength. Further brief pieces showcase riddling wit and conditions (King Solomon), the blessing‑and‑curse moral of sharing with a robin (and finding crocks of gold), a thread‑led rescue from an enchanted killer, a hare‑witch saved from black hounds, and a foolish wife who blunders into riches; the last fragment begins a visit to tiny “Danes” in a fairy fort before the excerpt cuts off.