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Angela Bourke is an Irish author and academic known for her work in Irish folklore and literature.
Her book "The Burning of Bridget Cleary" explores the true story of Bridget Cleary, a young Irish woman who was murdered by her husband in 1895. Bridget Cleary's death was a result of her husband believing she was a changeling, a fairy impostor who had taken the place of his wife. The book delves into the cultural and societal beliefs that led to Bridget's tragic demise and sheds light on the treatment of women in 19th-century Ireland.
"The Burning of Bridget Cleary" also delves into the legal proceedings that followed Bridget's murder, shedding light on the attitudes towards mental illness and the supernatural beliefs that were prevalent in Ireland during that time. Angela Bourke's book brings attention to issues such as misogyny, superstition, and the lack of agency that women had in Irish society. Through her meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Bourke challenges readers to confront the dark and tragic aspects of history while also celebrating Bridget Cleary's memory and legacy.
