Author profile

J. P. Mahaffy

1839–1919 · Ireland

An Irish classicist and teacher whose wide-ranging books brought ancient history, social observation and the practice of conversation to general readers.

Language & Communication History

Life and context

A short timeline

1839
Born in Ireland.
1887
The Principles of the Art of Conversation published.
1919
End of the author’s recorded life.

Recurring concerns

Themes and style

conversation
society
education
classical culture

Confident essayistic instruction shaped by anecdote, social judgment and classical comparison.

Available here

Works by J. P. Mahaffy

1 work in the Linden collection.

Language & Communication

The Principles of the Art of Conversation

J. P. Mahaffy

Language & Communication · B2–C1 · 2 hr

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Author FAQ

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Which J. P. Mahaffy book should I read first?

Explore The Principles of the Art of Conversation, then compare the lengths and subjects of the available works.

Is the author portrait historical?

This is a Linden original, historically informed editorial portrait—not an archival photograph. It is based on commonly documented appearance and period clothing; reuse status: Linden original artwork.