In this month occurs the anniversary of Edmund Malone, the celebrated Shakespearian commentator. He was born in Dublin in 1741, and educated at Dr Ford's school in Molesworth street. After graduating from Trinity he was called to the Irish Bar, but his legal career was singularly unsuccessful, briefs being few and far between. A blighted love is said to have turned him from everything, causing him to seek forgetfulness in books and writing. In 1777 he settled permanently in London, and became a member of the celebrated club of which Dr Johnson was the presiding light. Through his friendship with the latter, a meeting with Boswell was inevitable, and led to his taking a great part in the production of Boswell's "Life of Johnson."
In this connection he was editor, proof-reader and general utility man.
In his own right Malone made many important discoveries concerning Shakespeare's works. One of his famous exploits was his showing-up of the notorious Irish Shakespearian forgeries. In spite of the fact that he could shatter reputations ruthlessly, and expose literary fakes and fakers, he was a genial and kindly man. In addition, he was a keen book-buyer; and, although he was anything but a reckless bidder, many priceless manuscripts came into his hands, most of which went to the Bodleian collection upon his death.
The Irish Times, April 21st, 1931.