Major exhibition of Irish language manuscripts underway at Trinity College Dublin

Irish-language manuscripts are the focus of a major exhibition underway at Trinity College Dublin (Coláiste na Tríonóide Baile Átha Cliath). Trinity Library has a collection of over 200 medieval and early modern manuscripts written in the Irish language. Covering over a thousand years of Irish literature and learning, the collection is seen as one of the most important collections in the world. 

The unique texts indicate how Irish society operated, how people interacted with each other, what stories and myths they told about themselves and how they saw themselves on the world stage. The earliest recorded Irish writing dates from the seventh century and was produced by monks writing in both Latin and Early Irish. As well as scriptural writing, the monks of Ireland recorded both poetry and mythological tales.

The Brehon law manuscripts in the collection give an insight into one of the oldest legal systems in Europe and how everyday life in early medieval Ireland was governed. Brehon law, developed from customs which had been passed on orally from one generation to the next. In the 7th century AD the laws were written down for the first time. Brehon law was administered by Brehons (or brithem). They were the successors to Celtic druids. Similar to judges; their role was closer to that of an arbitrator and they acted to preserve and interpret the law.

The exhibition is on until the end of June. Information on the exhibition can be seen on the Trinity College website.