Muiris Ó Gormáin
Muiris Ó Gormáin | |
|---|---|
| Born | c.1720 Ulster, Ireland |
| Died | 1794 Dublin, Ireland |
| Occupation(s) | Poet, bookseller, scribe |
| Years active | 1760s–1790s |
| Known for | Irish language instruction, manuscript transcription, poetry |
Muiris Ó Gormáin (circa 1720–1794) was an Ulster-born Irish poet, bookseller, and scribe who spent a significant portion of his later years residing in Dublin. He maintained associations with Aodh Ó Dálaigh and was part of the Ó Neachtain group of scribes.
In 1766, Ó Gormáin promoted his expertise as an Irish language instructor through an advertisement in Faulkner’s Dublin Journal, offering lessons designed to grant learners access to ancient Irish manuscripts and chronicles. His teaching activities were conducted from his establishment located on St Mary’s-Lane in Dublin, where he also provided private tutoring.
While employed by historian Charles O'Conor (historian) at Belanagare, Ó Gormáin engaged in manuscript transcription and played a supportive role in Charlotte Brooke’s compilation and translation of Reliques of Irish Poetry (1789). Despite his linguistic skills, he faced ridicule from Peadar Ó Doirnín concerning his proficiency in English.
His circle of professional contacts comprised distinguished individuals such as Tomás Ó Gormáin, Bishop Matthew Young, Charles Vallancey, John Fergus, Richard Tipper, Thomas Leland, Éadbhard Ó Raghallaigh, and Fiachra Mac Brádaigh.
Among his poetic works is Is aoibhinn duit a Éire (1763), originally composed for Hugh Percy, 1st Duke of Northumberland and Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. Later, Ó Gormáin adapted this poem for George Townshend, 1st Marquess Townshend, an action that drew criticism from Énrí Ó Muirgheasa for lauding an English figure who had opposed Irish forces.
Celebrated as "one of the most sought after scribes," Ó Gormáin was commissioned by prominent Irish antiquarians from various religious backgrounds to copy and translate Gaelic texts. During the 1760s and 1770s, he assembled comprehensive catalogues assessing his vast collection of manuscripts and books.
As noted by James Hardiman, following a lifetime dedicated to the transcription and preservation of Ireland’s ancient poetry and historical records, Ó Gormáin passed away around 1794 in impoverished conditions within a cellar on Mary’s Lane, Dublin. His final days were supported for some time by the charity of Mac Entaggart, who himself was not wealthy.