Being St. Patrick’s Day and all, I thought it might be worth pointing readers toward a recently released book on the famous saint. Those of you wanting more than green beer and a parade might want to check out Phillip Freeman’s St. Patrick of Ireland : A Biography. Here are a few reviews to peak your interest:
The Dallas Morning News [registration required]:
Mr. Freeman provides a strong narrative of the life of St. Patrick that moves beyond the myths and presents a man of complexity and conviction. The author provides the context – Ireland during the period of the Druids, Celtic mythology and ancient customs that would threaten any Christian movement.
Freeman, a classical historian who has written extensively about Ireland and Celtic culture, gives these letters a new translation. Drawing on recent archaeological and historic research, ancient literature and Irish law, he frames a portrait of Patrick within the context of his times that is both discerning and fresh.
Washington University in St. Louis (where Mr. Freeman is an assistant professor of classics in Arts & Sciences):
In Philip M. Freeman’s “St. Patrick of Ireland: A Biography,” Patrick’s life is more akin to something out of a Hollywood action movie script — the reality of it is far more fascinating than the myth. From being kidnapped by pirates from his home in Britain, to living as a slave for six years in Ireland, to escaping, but then returning to the country he was held hostage in to minister to the people there, the book tells the tale of a remarkable man.
Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
