A crosántacht composed for Dáibhídhde Barra († 10 April, 1617)

Abstract

This article presents an edition and translation of Teallach coisreagtha críoch Bharrach, a crosántacht composed for Dáibhidh mac Séamais (mac Risteard) de Barra († 10 April 1617). The poem is attributed to Dáibhidh Ó Bruadair, though evidence examined here does not support the attribution. An introductory analysis considers the historical context, including an intriguing allusion to Aodh Mág Uidhir († 1600), chieftain of Fermanagh. Images of fír flaithemon are also highlighted. The fertile state of Barrymore is the result of the chieftain’s sacral marriage to the land, but also of St. Patrick’s blessing upon Munster. The regenerative power of the land is further exemplified in an apologue about Antaeus mac Tíre, who renews his strength by yielding to opponents and touching the earth, his mother. With a mix of praise and comic wit, the poet of Teallach extolls his patron and affirms the ­enduring bond between patron and patrimony.