Learning Irish is the standard introductory course to the Irish language. The product of many years of original and scholarly research as well as much teaching experience, this book and the accompanying online audio program serve a double function: they provide a sound approach to the ordinary language learner and at the same time furnish the professional linguist with an authentic description of the spoken language. The book does not presuppose prior knowledge of Irish and gives thorough coverage of the grammatical patterns of the language. Texts and exercises are presented in an authentic, interesting, conversational style and in carefully graded stages. The learner is assisted in mastering the pronunciation by the use of phonetic spelling and by the related audio recordings.

The Irish Classical Self considers the role of classical languages and learning in the construction of cultural identities in eighteenth and nineteenth century Ireland. Focusing in particular on the "lower ranks" of society, it explores this unusual phenomenon through analysis of contemporary writings and records of classical hedge schools.