The following version of this poem was used to create this guide: Wilde, Jane. “Dedication to Ireland.” Poem Hunter, https://www.poemhunter.com/poem/dedication-to-ireland/.

Note that all parenthetical citations within the guide refer to the lines of the poem from which the quotations are taken.

“Dedication to Ireland” is a celebration of Irish heritage and its potential to embody its true personal power. The poem was written at a contentious period of Irish history when the country was suffering from a range of social, political, and environmental challenges. In spite of this, Ireland was producing an array of groundbreaking literature and visual art. Speranza, the pen name of Lady Jane Wilde, was a vocal advocate for Irish independence and a champion of Irish literature. She is best known for the prestigious literary salons held in her home, and for being the mother of Oscar Wilde.