Dr. Mari Kathleen Fielder Subject

Dr. Mari Kathleen Fielder

Subject (Literary Work): The Shaughraun Entry #: 1 PART I: Immediate Response

A one-word (or phrase) response to this piece: Stage Irishman

Why?

This term helps to describe the two main characters, Conn and Robert. They are both friends, both very cunning, and both set out to help unravel the trap that is set for them. They embody the stereotypical Stage Irishman in this way, and also in a way that is typical in other plays. These characters are common in modern Irish Drama, as in the Shaughraun. Stage Irishmen also take on their national identity within the play, and the Shaughraun helps reflect much of the Irish spirit, or the spirit within all of life's trials and tribulations that eventually delivers the main character from death or ruin. This play is no exception in this respect, as Robert finds himself in jail after having part of his estate slated for reposseion. Later, with the help of his friend Con is able to make his escape and regain everything that was to be taken from him originally.

2. A personal linkage the piece engendered:

I liked this piece because it reminded me of the bond I have had over the years with a couple of my best friends. This play helps to evoke feelings of loyalty and reminded me that good friends are as often as hard to come by as they are loyal. Conn and Robert's friendship extends to a point where they both risk their lives for each other, and in the end both get to enjoy the fruits of the risks and actions taken to help spring Robert out of jail and take revenge on Kinchela and Harvey Duff. The idea that one should never give up, no matter what the odds are, is another personal linkage to this piece. No matter the odds, or the cunning of his enemies, Robert is able to overcome the hardships and challenges that are put before him. Certainly it does require help from friends, but he is able to conquer each obstacle and find lasting peace by the end of the play.

3. Any questions or random thoughts provoked:

I wondered how much of this play was inspired by other contemporary Irish plays, or even non-Irish. Every great work comes from inspiration, and it's interesting to me to try to see some of the linkages to other plays and dramas that were written and performed in the same historical timeframe and context. This tale, which embodies certain common elements to many other Irish stories told before it was written, certainly has a very Irish feel to it. I think this comes from the "underdog factor" where people who were originally persecuted find retribution and are able to live happily ever after so to speak.

Part II: Structural Analysis

1. How many plots are there? Identify each by citing the main conflicting forces in each

specified as ____ vs.

a.

Robert vs. English Government/Kinchela/Duff

b.

Kinchela/Duff vs. Conn

c.

Robert's desire to marry Arte and retain the family plot vs. struggle against the charges being brought against him

2. In each plot, who is the protagonist? (Why?)

a. Robert- He is seen as the hero of the Irish against the English, being persecuted by the English.

b. Conn- He is the "good" character, fighting for Robert's freedom and for vengeance against Kinchela and Duff. Both men plot to kill Robert, initially, then Conn.

c. Desire to marry and live happily ever after- This desire, or spirit, lies within many Irish plays and the playwright is trying to draw a direct connection between this protagonist element and the desire in every human being for stability and happiness.

Dr. Mari K. Fielder

Journal Entry - Page 2

3. In each plot, who is the antagonist? (Why?)

a. English Government/Kinchela/Duff- These two people represent the oppression the government desires to bring forth on Robert and his family/love interest. Later, the charges are dropped against Robert.

b. Kinchela/Duff- These are antagonists because they represent the negative side of the plot. That is to say, the obstacle to Robert's (and Conn's) escape and freedom. These two men are the only things that stand in the way of the two protagonists living happily ever after.