The Poor Scholar Traits And Stories Of The Irish Peasantry, The Works of William Carleton, Volume Three   By: William Carleton (1794-1869)

This book is a fascinating collection of stories that offer a vivid glimpse into the lives of the Irish peasantry. William Carleton has a unique way of bringing the characters to life, immersing the reader in the struggles and triumphs of the poor scholar. The tales are a poignant reminder of the hardships faced by the working class in Ireland, and the resilience and strength they displayed in the face of adversity.

Carleton's writing is rich in detail and emotion, painting a vivid picture of the harsh realities of life in Ireland during this period. The stories are both heartbreaking and heartwarming, offering a mix of tragedy and hope that captures the essence of the Irish peasantry.

Overall, this book is a powerful and moving read that sheds light on a significant period in Irish history. Carleton's insights into the lives of the poor scholar and the Irish peasantry are both enlightening and thought-provoking, making this a must-read for anyone interested in Irish literature and history.

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One day about the middle of November, in the year 18 , Dominick M'Evoy and his son Jemmy were digging potatoes on the side of a hard, barren hill, called Esker Dhu. The day was bitter and wintry, the men were thinly clad, and as the keen blast swept across the hill with considerable violence, the sleet like rain which it bore along pelted into their garments with pitiless severity. The father had advanced into more than middle age; and having held, at a rack rent the miserable waste of farm which he occupied, he was compelled to exert himself in its cultivation, despite either obduracy of soil, or inclemency of weather. This day, however, was so unusually severe, that the old man began to feel incapable of continuing his toil. The son bore it better; but whenever a cold rush of stormy rain came over them, both were compelled to stand with their sides against it, and their heads turned, so as that the ear almost rested back upon the shoulder in order to throw the rain off their faces. Of each, however, that cheek which was exposed to the rain and storm was beaten into a red hue; whilst the other part of their faces was both pale and hunger pinched... Continue reading book >>