CLASSICAL ASSOCIATION OF IRELAND
May 2019 you will have understood by then what these Ithakas mean. Brian was a wonderful conversationalist and raconteur, full of stimulating political and historical insights, always encouraging and deeply appreciative of ancient art, philosophy, literature and history. His endearing personality inspired love and affection in everyone who was privileged to enjoy his company. Andrew Smith and Joan Wright Brian and his late wife Suzanne are survived by two children, Aisling and Etienne (Brian), and four grandchildren. To them and to their families we all in the Classical Association of Ireland extend our deepest sympathies.
(Photos of Brian courtesy of Joan Wright)
Dublin Branch annual spring outing: Cashel 2019 Leaving UCD on a bright May morning our band of merry travellers embarked on the journey south. This year we visited the amazing Rock of Cashel and Cormac’s Chapel, an interesting group of buildings located in one of the most scenic areas of Ireland. The tour was planned many months ago by our dear friend in Classics, the late Brian O’Connell; there is no doubt that he accompanied us in spirit. We were so pleased that Brian’s daughter Aisling and her husband David accompanied us on this special outing, which was dedicated to his memory. The Rock of Cashel was the traditional seat of the kings of Munster. Cormac’s Chapel was commissioned in 1127 AD by Cormac McCarthy, King of South Munster. Mentioned in the Annals of Inisfallen, it is a building of great historical and architectural interest. This sandstone chapel is heavily decorated with carvings and in the past featured extensive frescoes of which only fragments have survived the ravages of damp weather conditions. A well-preserved Round Tower, 28 metres tall, is also located at the site. We were joined for lunch at the Horse and Jockey Hotel by friends of the O’Connell family, archaeologists Jean and Barry O’Reilly. 12
A delicious meal was enjoyed as we wished them both a very happy wedding anniversary. Jean and Barry then led the group on a walking tour of Cashel, visiting St John’s parish church. Set into the limestone walls of the old city boundary wall are 13th century life-size effigies of ladies and knights. We also visited the Dominican Friary with its row of beautiful lancet windows. All too soon our visit to this great medieval town was over. Our brave and good knight led us there – he now sits at a very special round table. We say “Farewell, Our Brave and Good Knight!” Isabella Bolger