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From modernist masterpieces to award-winning historical fiction, Irish literature has broken new creative ground again and again. Its breadth defies abbreviation, here is a list of authors that you must read to understand Irish history and culture, before you go on a vacation to Ireland. Jonathan Swift (1667–1745) The invention of the relatively young genre of Irish fiction written in English is most often credited to the Trinity College Dublin graduate and cleric Jonathan Swift. Best known for his 1726 satirical novel Gulliver’s Travels, Swift’s writing is said to have influenced everyone from Voltaire to James Joyce. As well as fictional works, Swift also penned several pamphlets championing Irish independence from English rule in his capacity as dean of St Patrick’s Cathedral. Maria Edgeworth (1768–1849) Anglo-Irish author Maria Edgeworth was a prolific novelist, known for her astute portraits of domestic life in rural Ireland. Born in England, Edgeworth moved to ...

The traditions and culture of Ireland are known across the world and whilst millions celebrate and enjoy Irish traditions, many are not aware of their origins. This article shall serve as a helpful and brief guide to the origins of many traditions that have shaped Ireland’s cultural identity, starting with perhaps the most famous Irish day of celebration. Pub Cultured Pub culture in Ireland is integral to community life, with public houses seen as places where friends and families can meet and catch-up on each other’s lives. Pubs in Ireland will most certainly feature one of the most famous icons of Ireland: Guinness. Introduced by Arthur Guinness from his brewery at St James’s Gate, Dublin in 1859, Guinness is one of the most popular and well-known drinks in the world and in Ireland it is still the most popular alcoholic drink bringing in €2 thousand-million every year and with a 9,000-year lease on the brewery, the world’s most famous pint is truly here to stay. Iri...