Three Plays

Pope Joan, Conchobar's House, and Columcille Goes by A. Kingsley Porter is a collection of three distinct historical and literary essays that delve into fascinating legends and tales from medieval history and literature.Pope Joan explores the legendary figure of Pope Joan, a woman who is said to have disguised herself as a man and became Pope in the Middle Ages. Porter examines the historical and literary origins of this controversial and mysterious tale. Conchobar's House delves into the ancient Irish legends surrounding Conchobar mac Nessa, a legendary king of Ulster in Irish mythology. Porter analyzes the significance of Conchobar's royal house and its role in the epic tales of the Ulster Cycle. Columcille Goes focuses on Saint Columba (Columcille), the Irish missionary who spread Christianity in Scotland. Porter reflects on the legendary journeys and influence of this revered saint, exploring the blend of history and myth in his story. These essays offer a rich exploration of myth, legend, and history, showcasing Porter's scholarly insight into the medieval world. Arthur Kingsley Porter (1883-1933) was an American art historian and medievalist. These plays were written during the last years of his life and described as "free poetical renderings of medieval themes that particularly appealed" to Porter.