Lady Gregory & W. B. Yeats 
The Unicorn from the Stars and Other Plays 

In ‘The Unicorn from the Stars and Other Plays, ‘ readers are invited into the rich tapestry of early 20th-century Irish literature, exploring a collection that weaves together the threads of nationalism, folklore, and the fervent quest for identity. Anchoring this anthology are the thematic resonances of the mystical and the material, as the plays oscillate between the ethereal realm of Irish mythology and the tangible struggles for cultural and political autonomy. The inclusion of standout pieces, such as the titular play, showcases the collection’s blend of poetic dialogue, symbolic storytelling, and visionary aspirations, marking a significant contribution to the Irish Literary Revival. The collaboration between Lady Gregory and W. B. Yeats, two pivotal figures in the movement, embodies the synthesis of mythic grandeur and literary innovation, framing the collection not merely as an artistic endeavor but as a cultural mission. Both editors brought their unique perspectives and mutual passion for Ireland’s cultural renaissance, weaving their extensive knowledge of folklore and commitment to national identity throughout the fabric of the anthology. Their collective influence underscores the anthology’s alignment with broader historical and cultural currents, offering readers a window into the dynamics of cultural resurgence and literary redefinition. ‘The Unicorn from the Stars and Other Plays’ beckons to readers with an interest in the crossroads of mythology, nationalism, and literary artistry. It presents a unique opportunity to journey through the collective imagination of Yeats and Gregory, where the exploration of myths serves not only as a retrieval of the past but as a commentary on their contemporary society. This collection is recommended for those who seek to understand the interplay between individual creativity and collective identity, and for anyone intrigued by the transformative power of literature in national and cultural movements.

Circa l’autore

Lady Gregory, born Isabella Augusta Persse (1852–1932), was a pivotal figure in the Irish literary revival and a co-founder of the Abbey Theatre. Born into an Anglo-Irish family at Roxborough, County Galway, she married Sir William Henry Gregory, a widower with a son, who shared her love for the arts. Widowed in 1892, Lady Gregory turned to the study of Irish folklore and culture, becoming a patron of the literary arts. Her passion for ancient Irish sagas culminated in the publication of ‘Cuchulain of Muirthemne’ (1902) and ‘Gods and Fighting Men’ (1904), iconic texts that retold Irish myths in accessible prose.

A close friend of W.B. Yeats, Lady Gregory collaborated with him and others to establish the Irish Literary Theatre, which later became the famed Abbey Theatre. Her mastery of the dramatic form is evident in works such as ‘The Unicorn from the Stars and Other Plays’ (1908), which contains plays showcasing her commitment to Irish folklore and its theatrical expression. Within these plays, her literary style often evokes a sense of national identity by weaving together the mystical with regional dialects. As an author and a driving force behind the Irish cultural renaissance, Lady Gregory left behind a legacy that continues to influence Irish literature and theatre. Her contributions as a playwright, folklorist, and cultural leader have cemented her as a significant literary figure in Ireland’s rich cultural history.