Barnes & Noble Digital Library

First performed in 1910, Deirdre of the Sorrows is based on Irish mythology. It was unfinished at time of the author’s death and completed by the poet William Butler Yeats and Synge’s fiancée, the actress Molly Allgood.  Deirdre, a beautiful young woman, is desired by a powerful but older king, Conchubor, whose pursuit of her leads to tragedy.