Modern Irish Writing

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

Cultural introversion characterised Ireland during World War Two and after, but radical experiment could still be found in such overseas-based authors as Samuel Beckett. By the 1960s, however, Time magazine could report "new spirit in the oul sod." Writers had always sought innovative forms to express underlying realities. Now society itself seemed intent on secularisation, urbanisation, and an expanded role for women. The Irish language was no longer seen as an antique piety but as part of a vibrant counter-culture. However, the eruption of old conflicts in the North suggested not everyone was ready for change. All of these social shifts and renewed controversies led to the creation of major works of literature. As the century drew to a close, voices were raised from within the gay community and Ireland ceased to be monocultural. A period of rapid globalisation saw the "worlding" of Irish writing, only to be followed by a major crisis in the economy which raised the very question of whether Ireland as a cultural project could survive in the twenty-first century. Texts for discussion: Samuel Beckett, Waiting for Godot Edna O'Brien, The Country Girls Brian Friel, Philadelphia, Here I Come! John Banville, Doctor Copernicus Seamus Heaney, North Frank McGuinness, Observe the Sons of Ulster Marching Towards the Somme Nuala Ní Dhómhnaill, Pharaoh's Daughter John McGahern, Amongst Women Brian Friel, Dancing at Lughnasa Seamus Deane, Reading in the Dark Claire Keegan, Foster