author
Pádraig Ó Seaghdha
1855–1928
A pioneer of Irish-language short fiction, he wrote with wit, historical insight, and a strong commitment to the Gaelic revival. Under the pen name “Conan Maol,” he became known for stories and essays that helped shape modern Irish literature.
1 Audiobook
Aoḋ Ó Néill : Drama
by Pádraig Ó Seaghdha
About the author
Born in Gort Breac, County Kerry, Pádraig Ó Seaghdha was raised in an Irish-speaking family and later worked in the customs and excise service. While living in Cardiff, he learned to read and write Irish and began exploring its classical literature; later, in Belfast and London, he taught Irish and became active in Conradh na Gaeilge.
He began writing in 1897 and became one of the pioneers of the Irish-language short story. His collection An Buaiceas won an Oireachtas prize in 1899, and he also wrote historical works, essays, drama, and fiction, including Seán an díomais, Mac Fínghín dubh, Aodh Ó Néill, Eoghan Paor, and Éire. He often published fiction under the name “Conan Maol.”
Ó Seaghdha was also admired as a historian and lecturer, giving talks on Irish history in London and remaining active in Dublin’s Irish-language movement. After becoming semi-paralysed following a bicycle accident in 1925, he died on March 21, 1928.