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The Countess Cathleen

From Hero-Myths & Legends of the British Race by M. I. Ebbutt

This tale is drawn from M. I. Ebbutt's collection of British legends, first published in the early twentieth century. It is set in medieval Ireland during a terrible famine, and tells of a countess who faces an impossible choice between her own soul and the lives of her people. The story explores themes of self-sacrifice, temptation, and the true measure of a person's heart. This text reflects its era; a few period terms have been modernised. The legend shows how love and courage can triumph even in the darkest circumstances, and reminds us that motives matter as much as deeds.

Band

Green · Independent readers, earlyTypical starting range: ages 9–11

Length

medium · about 825 words in 6 sections · 3 pictures

Source

Hero-Myths & Legends of the British Race, M. I. Ebbutt

First published

see the About page in the reader

Regions

Canada · United States

Included formats

• · Web reader and PDF
• · EPUB for e-readers
• · Home-print sheet
• · Folded booklet
• · Binder edition (8.5 × 11)
• · Worksheet
• · Quick Check (10 questions) with answer key
• · Read-aloud script
• · Teacher’s Edition (members)

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