Bres

Description

Bres, whose name is often translated as "beautiful" or "uproar," was a king of the Tuatha Dé Danann, born of a Fomorian father, Elatha, and a Tuatha Dé Danann mother, Ériu. His mixed heritage made him a symbol of the union—and tension—between these two rival supernatural races. Renowned for his striking beauty, Bres was chosen as king after Nuada, the previous ruler, lost his hand in battle and was deemed unfit to rule. However, his reign quickly became infamous for his lack of generosity and failure to uphold the sacred duties of kingship.

Bres imposed heavy tributes on the Tuatha Dé Danann and favored his Fomorian kin, leading to widespread resentment. His neglect of hospitality—a cornerstone of Irish culture—was particularly criticized, with poets composing biting satires against him. One such satire, by the poet Cairbre, is said to have been the first in Irish history and marked the beginning of Bres's downfall.

After seven years of rule, Bres was deposed when Nuada's hand was restored, allowing him to reclaim the throne. Bres sought aid from his Fomorian relatives to regain power, but his father, Elatha, refused to support him, citing his unjust rule. Instead, Bres turned to Balor of the Evil Eye and other Fomorian leaders, leading their forces in the Second Battle of Mag Tuired. Despite his efforts, Bres was defeated and captured by Lugh, who spared his life in exchange for agricultural knowledge that would benefit the Tuatha Dé Danann.

Bres's story is a cautionary tale of how personal flaws and poor leadership can lead to a ruler's downfall. His character embodies the complexities of identity, loyalty, and the interplay between light and shadow in Irish mythology.