Product Code Database
The Ossianic Society was an Irish literary society founded in Dublin on St. Patrick's Day, 1853, taking its name from the poetic material associated with the ancient narrator Oisín.
The group of Irish scholars emerged from competing societies, such as the Celtic Society and the Irish Archaeological Society, focusing on the translation of Irish literature from the "Fenian period of Irish history", specifically, the mythological works of Oisín and the Fianna, and the language revival of the Irish language. The manifesto stipulated the membership be entirely composed of Irish scholars, the intent being to distinguish itself from similar societies that catered to Anglo-Irish landlords' interests and influence. Though such societies had credible scholars as steering members the work produced was thought to be influenced by the local ascendancy and their royal (English) patrons.
The correspondence of members of the Society reveals a fractious relationship with other important figures of the time, Eugene O'Curry and those of the Royal Irish Academy, and were often frustrated in their attempts to access early manuscripts.
|
|
