Born in Dublin on June 13, 1865, William Butler Yeats was the first Nobel Literature laureate from Ireland. Considered as one of the most important poets of the 20th century who wrote in English, Yeats’ works include plays, poems, short stories and novels revolving around the Irish folklore and mythology which are widely read even today. His first work of verse was published in 1877; he is also known for co-founding the Irish Theatre (later known as the Abbey Theatre) along with Lady Gregory. Yeats was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1923 “for his always inspired poetry, which in a highly artistic form gives expression to the spirit of a whole nation”, reads a statement on Nobel Prize’s website. He died on January 28, 1939 at the age of 73.

Remembering William ButlerYeats on his birth anniversary today, National Library of Ireland shares their award winning online exhibition: Yeats: The Life and Works of William Butler Yeats.