History does not have to be taught in schools in order for people to have a curiosity and a knowledge of it. I think you underestimate people Jim. I am not suggesting that everyone is an ardent student of history, Irish or otherwise but I do know that people who are genuinely interested in a subject read widely and thus inform themselves.
I thought you mentioned in an earlier post that you had read only one of his novels, hence my reluctance to give credence to your views of him. I must have misunderstood you.