Séamas Dall Mac Cuarta (c. 1647? – 1733) was a poet who founded a school of poetry in south Ulster and north Leinster. His school attracted a number of followers who were likely consciously resisting the anglicisation of the period. His poetry is reflective of the political situation at the time: praises are heaped upon those who resist English conquest, while the English are scorned and condemned; one of his most known works, ‘Tuireadh Shomhairle Mhic Dhomhnaill’, is a eulogy composed for a Catholic leader who fell at the Battle of Aughrim. In the words of Nollaig Ó Muraíle, ‘Mac Cuarta’s poetry reflects a familiarity with Irish literature and history, the classics (Greek and Latin), and the Bible.’ The ‘Dall’ in his name refers to blindness or possibly to poor-sight.
Saoṫair
Coṁairle Ṡéamuis Ṁic Cuarta do Ḃeitiġ Ní Ṁarcaiġ, Bean Leanna