The works of many Anglo-Irish writers are familiar to us. English literature has often been dominated by Irish writers who wrote in English.

In this highly entertaining and informative book, Professor Jeffares surveys the whole range of one of the richest literary traditions from its beginnings in the Middle Ages to the modern period. The earlier writing is discussed chronologically, but the great wealth of writing in the last century is discussed in genres: poetry, fiction and drama.

The writers are set in their social and political context. Not only are the works of major writers...