Born: 1882 Deceased: 1941
Famous Work: Ulysses
James Joyce was an Irish novelist and poet, best known for his groundbreaking work, "Ulysses" (1922), which is considered one of the most important works of modernist literature. Born in 1882 in Dublin, Joyce explored themes of identity, language, and the everyday lives of ordinary people. His innovative use of stream-of-consciousness narrative and his vivid depiction of Dublin in his works left a profound impact on literature.
Born: 1865 Deceased: 1939
Famous Work: The Tower
William Butler Yeats was an Irish poet, dramatist, and one of the foremost figures of 20th-century literature. Born in 1865, Yeats was a driving force in the Irish literary revival. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1923 for his passionate and symbolic poetry, which explored themes of nationalism, mysticism, and love. His work remains widely read today.
Born: 1906 Deceased: 1989
Famous Work: Waiting for Godot
Samuel Beckett was an Irish playwright, novelist, and poet, best known for his play "Waiting for Godot" (1953), a key work of the Theatre of the Absurd. Born in 1906, Beckett won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1969. His works, often centered on existential themes and the human condition, have had a lasting influence on literature and theatre.
Born: 1854 Deceased: 1900
Famous Work: The Picture of Dorian Gray
Oscar Wilde was an Irish playwright, poet, and author, celebrated for his wit, flamboyance, and literary style. Born in 1854, Wilde is best known for works such as "The Picture of Dorian Gray" (1890) and "The Importance of Being Earnest" (1895). His sharp social commentary and dark sense of humor made him one of the most memorable figures in Victorian literature.
Born: 1939 Deceased: 2013
Famous Work: Death of a Naturalist
Seamus Heaney was an Irish poet, playwright, and translator, and one of the most significant literary figures of the late 20th century. Born in 1939 in County Derry, Heaney won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1995. His poetry, often deeply rooted in the landscape and history of Ireland, reflects themes of identity, culture, and personal history.
Born: 1856 Deceased: 1950
Famous Work: Pygmalion
George Bernard Shaw was an Irish playwright, critic, and polemicist, whose works had a profound impact on theater and social thought. Born in 1856 in Dublin, Shaw wrote more than 60 plays, including "Pygmalion" (1913), which was later adapted into the popular musical "My Fair Lady." He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1925.
Born: 1944 Deceased: N/A
Famous Work: First female President of Ireland
Mary Robinson was the first female president of Ireland, serving from 1990 to 1997. Born in 1944, she played a pivotal role in modernizing Ireland and advancing its international profile. Robinson later served as the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and has been a strong advocate for climate change action and social justice.
Born: 1988 Deceased: N/A
Famous Work: UFC Champion
Conor McGregor is an Irish mixed martial artist and boxer, widely recognized as one of the most famous athletes in combat sports. Born in 1988 in Dublin, McGregor became the first fighter in UFC history to hold titles in two weight divisions simultaneously. Known for his brash personality and knockout power, he has become an international sports icon.
Born: 1960 Deceased: N/A
Famous Work: With or Without You
Bono, born Paul David Hewson in 1960, is an Irish singer, songwriter, and philanthropist, best known as the lead vocalist of the rock band U2. Bono has used his platform to advocate for human rights and global causes, such as poverty reduction and social justice. U2 has become one of the most successful and influential bands in music history.
Born: 1994 Deceased: N/A
Famous Work: Brooklyn
Saoirse Ronan is an Irish-American actress, renowned for her performances in both independent and major Hollywood films. Born in 1994 in the Bronx, New York, Ronan has received numerous accolades for her acting, including Academy Award nominations. She is best known for her roles in "Brooklyn" (2015) and "Lady Bird" (2017).