In early Irish myths and sagas female characters have been portrayed through three main traits – a mother, a sovereign goddess, and a ‘reaper’ – which have later been used by artists and writers to create the powerful female figure of Erin. This image of Erin has strong links to the mythical character of Deirdre and her struggle against captivity. During the early 20th century, in their attempts to reawaken Irish nationalism through art and literature, Revivalists used Deirdre’s character to create a strong female figure in her suffering and victory against her aggressor, to address the more pressing topics of political nature. In more recent years, Deirdre has reappeared in the works of such Irish authors like Alan Walsh, who, through the portrayal of the heroine’s madness, explores her connection not only to the Irish land but also to Celtic traditions. Consequently, just like Erin, Deirdre has become an embodiment of Ireland and has been transformed from the legendary heroine into a recurring figure in Irish literature, whose representation continues to evolve from a tragic victim of the King’s greed to a warrior Queen rising above her enemies in the fight for freedom to a madwoman seeking justice for the wrong done to her.