New book looks at the life and legacy of Cork's 'Big Fella', Michael Collins

A new book by Cork author Cal McCarthy is set to take an in-depth look at the life and legacy of arguably one of the most important figures in Irish 20th century history.

Launched by the Michael Collins House Museum In the Shadow of the Big Fellow: The Commemoration, Commercialisation, Study, and Politicisation of Michael Collins 1922-2022, looks at how Michael Collins has been remembered and commemorated over the course of the century following his death.

Through a painstaking analysis of political discourse, public memorialisation, literature, film and popular culture, Mr McCarthy provides readers with a nuanced portrait of ‘The Big Fella’ and his immense legacy.

The first major publication from the Clonakilty-based museum, the book builds on its existing content in a bid to increase public understanding of Ireland’s revolutionary past in an accessible manner.

The book will be officially launched by the Mayor of the County of Cork, councillor Mary Linehan Foley, at Michael Collins House in Clonakilty at 7pm on Friday. Mr McCarthy will present a brief talk and sign copies of the book at the launch.

Speaking about the book, Ms Linehan Foley said: “Michael Collins was not only a towering figure in his own time, but he has also loomed large over Irish political and cultural life ever since.

“This book aims to explore how different generations have interpreted his life, his role in Irish independence, and what he has come to symbolise for Ireland today.”

The book will be available on sale from Friday at Michael Collins House Museum, selected bookstores, and online at www.michaelcollinshouse.ie.