Seamus Heaney's younger brother, Christopher Heaney, tragically died in a road accident when he was four years old.
The Tragic Loss of Christopher Heaney
Christopher Heaney's death occurred in February 1953. He was hit by a car while walking near the family farm at Mossbawn. This devastating event had a profound impact on the Heaney family and is famously explored in Seamus Heaney's poetry, most notably in his poignant poem "Mid-Term Break."
Key Details of the Incident
For a quick overview, here are the essential details surrounding the tragic death of Seamus Heaney's brother:
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Christopher Heaney |
| Relationship | Younger brother of Seamus Heaney |
| Event | Fatal road accident |
| Age at Death | Four years old |
| Location | Near the family farm at Mossbawn |
| Date | February 1953 |
| Circumstances | Hit by a car while walking |
At the time of Christopher's death, Seamus Heaney was boarding at St Columb's College in Derry. The news of his brother's death reached him while he was away from home, a theme he later reflected upon in his literary works.
For more information about Seamus Heaney's life, you can visit the Seamus Heaney Home website.
