Presented by Therese McIntyre. This 8-part series traces the journey of ballads from the 16th century to today, and explores how they shape or distort our understanding of history.
Episode 1 – The Outlaw Herosongs
The oral ballad tradition dates back to the twelfth century but it’s not until the introduction of print in Ireland around 1760 hat we begin to see a record of traditional songs in both the Irish and English language.
In the first episode of Herosongs presenter Therese McIntyre, explores the importance of the hero concept in Ireland, the emergence of the printed ballad-sheets and she explores a genre of herosongs about one of the most romantic types – the outlaw – those individuals who rebel against the norms of society.
In this episode we hear from Grace Toland from the Irish Traditional Music Archive, historian of NUI Galway Niall Ó Ciosain, song collector and singer John Moulden and Góilín traditional singers club member, Máire Ní Chróinín.
Songs include ‘The Forger’s Farewell’ about outlaw hero William Hill, ‘Eamonn an Chnoic’ about Éamonn Ó Riain and ‘Newry Highway Man’ about a young apprentice.
RTÉ Radio 1 Extra, Monday 9 December at 2.30pm – Herosongs