Topic Summary

It’s the twelfth century and Ireland is divided by a feudal system creating many small kingdoms, with a High King situated in Dublin. Dearbhfhorghaill was a Queen married to King O’Rourke of the Breifne kingdom in the north west. After a joint attack on their territory by King Mac Murchada and his allies, Dearbhfhorghaill was abducted by King Mac Murchada. Rumour is that they were madly in love, but that’s never been conclusively proven. In retaliation King O’Rourke enlists the High King, who happens to be a relative, to help get his wife back and as punishment Mac Murchada was exiled. While in exile, Mac Murchada traveled to England and France becoming allies with the Normans. He facilitated the Anglo-Norman invasion of Ireland as revenge for his banishment. The committee will begin with the banishment of Mac Murchada and either end with the Norman’s successful invasion of Ireland or their retreat, depending on the delegates.

Director’s Letter

Dearest Delegates,

Hi everyone! My name is Sophia Mills and I am so excited to be acting as your director for this crisis committee at HNMUN! I am from Boca Raton, Florida and am completing a joint concentration in Government and Economics (maybe) with a secondary in Romance Languages and Civilizations (eu estou estudando português :))

My journey in Model UN started my freshman year when my roommate took me to an info meeting and I was hooked. The sense of community and topics covered really intrigued me and I decided to give it a try! Now, I compete on the college circuit, which is an amazing experience, and I have met so many amazing people on this new venture.

Beyond Model UN, I am a part of the political review and Caribbean club (big up Trinidad/Dominica). I LOVE to watch tv shows/movies (please give me recs). Anywhere from Marvel to reality tv is right up my alley! You can often find me watching insta reels or listening to show tunes - I am a bit of a theater kid…

As we embark on this committee, I am eager to witness your innovation, collaboration, and passion. As someone who has found a great community within MUN, I will look towards delegates who foster this sense of community through not just their research prowess, but how they embrace the spirit of community by actively engaging with and supporting fellow delegates. This topic is fun so get excited!! 

I can't wait to step into the room with you all this upcoming winter, and if there are any questions or concerns you all have please do not hesitate to contact me!

Don’t forget the recs,

Sophia Mills 

Director, Abduction of Dearbhfhorghaill, Ireland, 1152

Crisis Director’s Letter

Dia Daoibh a chairde,

I’m honoured to welcome you to the Committee on the Abduction of Dearbhfhorghaill, set in Ireland, 1152.

My name is Mae Weir, I’m a member of the Intercollegiate Model United Nations team pursuing a degree in Government, with a secondary in French. I am a sophomore at the college, living in Eliot House. I’m sure you’re shocked to know that I’m originally from the north-west countryside of Ireland. At Harvard, when not competing for our collegiate team, I enjoy staffing our High school and collegiate conferences and I’m a director of our Model Security Council which organises freshman recruitment to International Relations clubs. Outside of MUN, I’m a little bit of a film buff, and I’m addicted to putting outrageous bids on eBay. 

Not only will this committee test your ability to pronounce ancient Irish names, you must be able to enter the minds of ancient Irish nobility. Whether you’re a bard, monk, king or Norman, your task is to embrace your ruthless side and fiercely protect your interests. In 1152, you’ll be left without modern inventions and forced to find new methods of negotiation whether that be battle raids, building monasteries, foreign alliances, or strategic romantic engagements. History has already been written and you can by all means gain inspiration from your textbooks, but I hope that you use this opportunity to demonstrate your personal ingenuity. 

This committee may be run a little differently, as I’ve written the background guide but will spend the majority of time in the backroom as Crisis Director. This is because I feel that my personal connection to this niche topic would be put to better use answering your notes, while the wonderful Sophia will corral you in the front room. I will be moving back and forth, to ensure that I get to know all of you!

Go n-éirí an t-adh dhearg libh,

Mae Weir 

Crisis Director, Abduction of Dearbhfhorghaill, Ireland, 1152