Background
Bodhbh Dearg, also known as Bov The Red, was the esteemed ruler of Sídh ar Feimhim, which is situated on Slievenamon in County Tipperary. He ascended to the throne as the King of the Tuatha Dé Danann after their defeat by the Gaelic tribes.
Tales of Bodhbh Dearg
Following Bodhbh Dearg’s election as King, it came to his attention that Lir of Sídh Fionnachaidh was displeased, believing himself to be a worthy candidate for kingship. To mend fences and foster goodwill, Bodhbh extended an offer of his stepdaughter Aobh’s hand in marriage to Lir. Unfortunately, Aobh passed away while giving birth to a pair of twins, leaving Lir in profound sorrow. To lighten Lir’s heart, Bodhbh presented Aoife, Aobh’s younger sister, as a consolation.
Bodhbh held a deep affection for Lir’s children. When he learned of the tragic fate that fell upon them, he used his druid’s wand to transform Aoife into a demon condemned to live as a bird, forever caged in the heavens. In solidarity with Lir, he joined him at Lake Derravarragh to find solace in the enchanting melodies of the swan children.
Another notable narrative involving Bodhbh Dearg features Aonghus Óg, the son of the Daghda and the Goddess Bíonn. Aonghus was profoundly lovesick, enchanted by a woman he had seen in a dream. The Daghda sought Bodhbh Dearg’s assistance, initiating a quest that spanned an entire year. Upon completing his search, Bodhbh announced he had located the woman near Crotta Cliach, in the Galtee Mountains of County Tipperary, by Lake Muskry. To their astonishment, they discovered one hundred and fifty maidens, bound together by golden chains. However, Aonghus recognized his beloved, Caer, as she stood taller than the others. Regrettably, her father Eathal refused to release her.
In pursuit of Caer’s freedom, Bodhbh sought aid from Meadhbh and Ailill of Connaught, leading to the revelation that Caer could shift between the forms of a maiden and a swan. On every first of November, she would be seen among a multitude of swans at Lake Muskry. Aonghus ventured there to declare his love for her; during their encounter, he was metamorphosed into a swan, and together they soared away, accompanied by celestial music that lulled anyone who heard it into a deep slumber for three days and nights.
Conclusion
Bodhbh Dearg emerged as a clever and insightful king, adept at discovering solutions to the various challenges he encountered.
