Richard Ellmann was born on March 15, 1918, in Highland Park, Michigan. His father was a Romanian immigrant and his mother was a Russian immigrant. Growing up in a multicultural household, Ellmann developed a love for literature and language at a young age.
After graduating from Yale University, Ellmann enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Following his military service, he made the decision to further his studies in literature. He traveled to Ireland to study at Trinity College in Dublin, immersing himself in the rich literary culture of the country.
Ellmann's early career in academia focused on the intersection of literature and history. His research on William Butler Yeats garnered him critical acclaim, establishing him as an authority on the renowned author. His groundbreaking work on Yeats became the definitive biography of the poet, showcasing Ellmann's meticulous attention to detail and deep understanding of his subject.
Ellmann's most celebrated work was his 1959 biography of James Joyce, which earned him the U.S. National Book Award for Nonfiction. The biography was praised for its thorough exploration of Joyce's life and literary contributions, shedding new light on the enigmatic author.
In addition to his work on Joyce and Yeats, Ellmann also penned a notable biography of Oscar Wilde, for which he was awarded the Pulitzer Prize. His profiles of these iconic authors provided invaluable insight into their lives and work, solidifying his reputation as a preeminent literary critic and biographer.
Ellmann was married to Mary, with whom he had two daughters and a son. Despite his busy career, he made time to enjoy family life and cherish moments with his loved ones. His devotion to his family was evident in the love and support he provided to his children and wife throughout his life.
Throughout his career, Ellmann remained dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge and the art of storytelling. His passion for literature and biographical research inspired countless readers and scholars, cementing his legacy as a masterful chronicler of literary history.
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