This authoritative handbook of Irish writings, from earilest times to the present day, is a comprehensive guide to authors of every description - dramatists, essayists, philosophers, poets, scientists, story-tellers - the forgotten and the famous, from Colmcille to Heaney. No small nation has such a deeply rooted heritage, or has contributed so much to the written word: that achievement is recorded here in over 1800 entries, listing an author's principal works with as much biographical and critical detail as space allows. Part 1 covers Writers in English, Part 2 in Irish and Latin, with supplementary entries on the Annals and other scribal compilations. Shrewd criticisms and a witty commentary make the Biographical Dictionary of Irish Writers a fascinating read as well as a vital source of facts for writers, students, and for all who love Irish literature.