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Synge and the Ireland of His Time   By: (1865-1939)

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Synge and the Ireland of His Time by William Butler Yeats is an enlightening exploration of the life and works of Irish playwright John Millington Synge. As a prominent figure in the Irish literary revival, Yeats provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of Synge's contribution to Irish drama and his deep connection to the tumultuous Irish society of the early 20th century.

Throughout the book, Yeats employs a mix of personal anecdotes and meticulous analysis to shed light on Synge's plays, particularly his masterpiece "The Playboy of the Western World." Synge's portrayal of the Irish peasantry and their struggles against cultural and social constraints stirred controversy upon its initial release, making it a prime subject for Yeats' examination of national identity.

Yeats delves into the cultural and political climate of the time, highlighting how Synge's work challenged the traditional depiction of Ireland while also exploring the complexities of the Irish national character. By placing Synge's plays within the context of Irish history and folklore, Yeats effectively showcases the playwright's deep understanding of his native land and its people.

One of the book's most captivating aspects is Yeats' intimate knowledge of Synge as a close friend and fellow writer. This personal connection allows Yeats to illuminate Synge's creative process and the challenges he faced as an artist striving to capture the essence of Ireland. It is through this lens that readers gain valuable insights into Synge's motivations and artistic choices, enriching their understanding of his impact on Irish literature.

Yeats' writing style is both engaging and accessible, making this book a pleasure to read for both scholars and general readers interested in Irish literature and history. Although Yeats approaches his subject matter with great admiration, he is not blind to Synge's limitations as a playwright. His critique of certain aspects of Synge's work adds depth to the analysis and allows for a more balanced evaluation of the playwright's achievements.

Ultimately, Synge and the Ireland of His Time is a captivating exploration of John Millington Synge's life, works, and their profound implications in the cultural and political upheaval of early 20th-century Ireland. Thanks to Yeats' keen insights and personal connection to the subject, readers are offered a comprehensive and intimate perspective on one of Ireland's most influential playwrights. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Irish literature, cultural identity, and the transformative power of art.

First Page:

E text prepared by David Starner, Charles Franks, Juliet Sutherland, and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team

SYNGE AND THE IRELAND OF HIS TIME

BY WILLIAM BUTLER YEATS

WITH A NOTE CONCERNING A WALK THROUGH CONNEMARA WITH HIM BY JACK BUTLER YEATS

CHURCHTOWN DUNDRUM MCMXI

PREFACE

At times during Synge's last illness, Lady Gregory and I would speak of his work and always find some pleasure in the thought that unlike ourselves, who had made our experiments in public, he would leave to the world nothing to be wished away nothing that was not beautiful or powerful in itself, or necessary as an expression of his life and thought. When he died we were in much anxiety, for a letter written before his last illness, and printed in the selection of his poems published at the Cuala Press, had shown that he was anxious about the fate of his manuscripts and scattered writings. On the evening of the night he died he had asked that I might come to him the next day; and my diary of the days following his death shows how great was our anxiety. Presently however, all seemed to have come right, for the Executors sent me the following letter that had been found among his papers, and promised to carry out his wishes.

'May 4th, 1908

'Dear Yeats,

'This is only to go to you if anything should go wrong with me under the operation or after it... Continue reading book >>




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