Lir and Aebh
Legend has it that many, many years ago the Tuatha Dé Danann were one of the first tribes of people to live in Ireland. They were skilled in the use of magic. When the time came for them to select a new king, a noble man called Bodb Dhearg was chosen. Lir had been the other main candidate and was very angry because he felt he deserved it more.
Lir Chooses Aebh
Early twentieth century illustration of Bodb Dhearg's wife and her three daughters. Bodb Dhearg was the king of the Tuatha Dé Danann. Lir was given the chance to choose a wife from among his three beautiful daughters, who were called Aebh, Aoife and Ailbhe. He chose Aebh, because she was the noblest.
Lir Chooses Aebh
Lir Chooses Aebh
Early twentieth century illustration of Bodb Dhearg's wife and her three daughters. Bodb Dhearg was the king of the Tuatha Dé Danann. Lir was given the chance to choose a wife from among his three beautiful daughters, who were called Aebh, Aoife and Ailbhe. He chose Aebh, because she was the noblest.
But Bodb respected Lir and did not want them to be enemies. To ensure Lir's friendship, he offered him the choice of any one of his three beautiful daughters as a wife. Lir thought they were all stunningly beautiful, but decided to choose the eldest because he felt she was the most noble of the three. Her name was Aebh. Together, they went home happily to Lir's castle that night.
Joy and Tragedy
Lir and Aebh fell very much in love. Soon Aebh gave birth to a daughter and a son, called Fionnuala and Aodh. They were beautiful children and anyone who saw them could not help but fall in love with them.
A few years passed and Aebh gave birth to two more sons, called Fiachra and Conn. They were as good-natured and handsome as their older brother and sister. However, poor Aebh never lived to see her youngest boys. During their birth she passed away tragically. Lir was heartbroken.
Now Lir and his four children were left to look after one another. It was only the love of his children that helped him to survive the death of his dear wife. After a while, he thought it would be better for the family if he found a new wife.