Brendan Behan, Irish republican and playwright (b. 1923)

Brendan Francis Aidan Behan, though christened simply Francis, was a towering figure in Irish literature and a fiercely independent spirit. Born in Dublin on February 9, 1923, and passing away too soon on March 20, 1964, Behan distinguished himself as an Irish poet, short story writer, novelist, and playwright. Remarkably, he wrote fluently in both English and Irish, earning him a place among the greatest Irish writers of all time, as lauded by Irish Central.

Early Life, Republican Roots, and a Scholar's Spirit

Behan's upbringing was steeped in Irish Republicanism, a defining characteristic of his life and work. Born into a staunchly republican family in Dublin, the young Brendan quickly absorbed the patriotic fervor that surrounded him. At just fourteen, he joined Fianna Éireann, the Irish Republican Army's (IRA) youth organization, setting the stage for a life deeply intertwined with the struggle for Irish independence. His home was a crucible of Irish history and culture, where literature and traditional patriotic ballads were celebrated, ensuring he was immersed in a rich literary heritage from a very young age.

The call of republican activism grew stronger, and by sixteen, Behan officially joined the IRA. This commitment led to periods of imprisonment, first in a borstal youth prison in the United Kingdom and later in Ireland. Far from being broken by these experiences, Behan used his time behind bars as an opportunity for self-improvement. It was during these years that he dedicated himself to studying and became a fluent, passionate speaker of the Irish language, a skill that would later enrich his literary output.

In 1946, Behan was finally released from prison as part of a general amnesty granted by the Fianna Fáil government. Following his release, his restless spirit led him to move between various homes in Dublin, County Kerry, and Connemara, a region known for its strong Irish cultural identity. He even spent a significant period residing in Paris, absorbing new cultural influences that would undoubtedly colour his worldview.

Literary Breakthrough and International Acclaim

The mid-1950s marked Behan's emergence as a formidable literary talent. In 1954, his first play, The Quare Fellow, made its debut in Dublin, earning critical praise. However, it was the 1956 production at Joan Littlewood's renowned Theatre Workshop in Stratford, London, that truly catapulted Behan to wider recognition. His newfound fame was further amplified by a now-legendary drunken interview on BBC television with Malcolm Muggeridge, an incident that became as much a part of his public persona as his writing.

Behan’s versatility was evident in his next major work. In 1958, his play in the Irish language, An Giall (The Hostage), premiered at Dublin's Damer Theatre. This was soon followed by its English-language adaptation, also titled The Hostage, which achieved immense international success, solidifying his reputation as a playwright of global standing. The same year saw the publication of his autobiographical novel, Borstal Boy. This raw, honest, and often humorous account of his experiences in juvenile detention became a worldwide best-seller, resonating deeply with readers across continents.

Peak of Fame and Tragic Decline

By the early 1960s, Brendan Behan had reached the zenith of his fame. He spent increasing amounts of time in New York City, where his charismatic and often boisterous personality made him a beloved, if controversial, figure. He famously declared, "To America, my new found land: The man that hates you hates the human race," encapsulating his complex relationship with the country. During this vibrant period, Behan found himself in the company of cultural icons like Harpo Marx and Arthur Miller, and was even followed by a young, aspiring folk singer named Bob Dylan, who was clearly captivated by the Irish literary giant.

Tragically, this explosion of fame did little to aid Behan's deteriorating health or his ability to consistently produce his best work. He battled severe alcoholism and diabetes, medical conditions that relentlessly worsened. His later works, such as Brendan Behan's New York and Confessions of an Irish Rebel, received considerably less critical praise, reflecting the toll his struggles were taking. In a brief attempt to combat his addictions, he managed a period of sobriety while staying at the Chelsea Hotel in New York. In 1961, he sought professional help, being admitted to Sunnyside Private Hospital, an institution in Toronto specializing in the treatment of alcoholism. Despite these efforts, Behan once again succumbed to his demons, relapsing back into active alcoholism. His life, marked by extraordinary literary genius and profound personal struggle, ended prematurely at the age of 41.

FAQs About Brendan Behan

Who was Brendan Behan?

Brendan Behan was a prominent Irish poet, short story writer, novelist, and playwright, also known for his activism as an Irish Republican. He wrote in both English and Irish and is considered one of Ireland's greatest literary figures.

When did Brendan Behan live?

Brendan Behan was born on February 9, 1923, and passed away on March 20, 1964.

What are Brendan Behan's most famous works?

His most acclaimed works include the plays The Quare Fellow and The Hostage (an English adaptation of his Irish play An Giall), and his autobiographical novel Borstal Boy.

What was Brendan Behan's connection to the IRA?

Behan came from a staunchly republican family and joined the IRA's youth wing, Fianna Éireann, at 14, and the IRA itself at 16. His republican activism led to periods of imprisonment in both the UK and Ireland.

Did Brendan Behan write in Irish?

Yes, he was fluent in the Irish language and wrote significantly in it, most notably the play An Giall, which was later adapted into the internationally successful English play The Hostage.