Paddy Austin

Sarah & Eleanor Paddy Austin

When two well-born women run away from their homes in Kilkenny to live together, the genteel world of 18th century Ireland is scandalised. Not daunted, Lady Eleanor Butler and Sarah Ponsonby pursue their desire, and make a life together that is as happy and fulfilling as it is eccentric. Lovers of the romantic movement, and followers of the philosophies of Rousseau, they create a home in Llangollen in Northern Wales, and become known widely as the Ladies of Llangollen. Before long, they are the focus of a group of people whose love of philosophy, literature and politics draws them to the beautiful garden and increasingly Gothic home that Sarah and Eleanor share, and they are loved and admired by all who spend time in their company. Increasingly freed from the restraints normally placed on women, but careful of their good name, they are earthy and satirical, intelligent and resourceful and capable of unexpected insights into the world around them. Sarah's early experiences, particularly at the hands of her adopted uncle, and Eleanor's inability to meet the expectations of her aristocratic mother, lead them to view love and intimacy in ways that are unusual for their time, and their determination to succeed in their chosen way of life is underpinned by their devotion to each other. Based on a true story, Sarah & Eleanor is a tale of betrayal, seduction, loneliness and desire. But mostly, it is a story of a love that endures through hardships and scandal, and leaves a legacy of achievement still admired today.