This new book offers a critical introduction to the full scope of Edgeworth's writing, encompassing her whole career and a broad range of her extensive oeuvre. / Maria Edgeworth made a significant contribution to three different but interlinked areas: education, the representation of Ireland, and the representation of women's experiences and characters. Cl¿ona ¿ Gallchoir provides a lucid and accessible introduction to each area of Edgeworth's work - and offers students in particular an overview of her work that encompasses its full range and incorporates the insights of contemporary criticism. / Particular focus is given to her Irish fiction, her examination of women's lives and roles, and her work in education and children's literature. / A conclusion draws together the central discursive strands and offers an assessment of Edgeworth's achievement and reputation. Contents: Biographical Timeline. / 1. Introduction: Themes and Contexts. / 2. Education, 1795-1804 (Practical Education, Parent's Assistant, Early Lessons, Moral Tales, Harry and Lucy). / 3. Ireland, 1782-1802 (The Double Disguise, Castle Rackrent, An Essay on Irish Bulls). / 4. Women, 1795-1806: (Letters for Literary Ladies, Belinda, Leonora). / 5. Novelist of the Union: Ennui, The Absentee and Ormond. / 6. Challenging English Identity: Harrington, Patronage. / 7. Later Work: Helen and later fiction for children. / Conclusion. Notes. Bibliography