“The Earl of Aboyne”

Description

The Earl goes to London, leaving his wife behind. She hears that he has been courting others. When he returns, she makes a fine show but disdains him. He prepares once again to depart, and says she may not go with him. She dies for love

Notes

This rather confused story seems to have no historical basis (at least not based on the names in the ballad). - RBW

References

  1. Child 235, "The Earl of Aboyne" (12 texts, 1 tune)
  2. Bronson 235, "The Earl of Aboyne" (9 versions)
  3. Ord, pp. 464-465, "The Lord o' Aboyne" (1 text)
  4. Leach, pp. 593-595, "The Earl of Aboyne" (1 text)
  5. Roud #99
  6. BI, C235

About

Alternate titles: “Bonny Peggy Irvine”
Author: unknown
Earliest date: 1803 (Skene ms.)
Found in: Britain(Scotland(Aber))