Modern Irish Drama: W. B. Yeats to Marina Carr, Second Edition / Edition 2

by Sanford Sternlicht

Overview

Modern Irish Drama: W. B. Yeats to Marina Carr presents a thorough introduction to the recent history of one of the greatest dramatic and theatrical traditions in Western culture. Originally published in 1988, this updated edition provides extensive new material, charting the path of modern and contemporary Irish drama from its roots in the Celtic Revival to its flowering in world theater. The lives and careers of more than fifty modern Irish playwrights are discussed along with summaries of their major plays and recommendations for further reading.

Most significantly, Sternlicht treats the major themes of modern Irish drama: the struggle for independence; the suffering caused by extreme poverty and the resulting emigration; the decline of Anglo-Irish ascendency; the epic longing for and love of the land; the waning power of the clergy; generational conflicts; problems of the postcolonial transition; and the impact of feminism on a patriarchal society. Sternlicht brings well-deserved attention to such younger playwrights as Conor McPherson, Robert Massey, Ursala Rani Sarma, and Sean McLoughlin, among others. Including a selected bibliography and filmography, Modern Irish Drama is an indispensable resource for students of drama studies and production companies alike.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780815632450
Publisher:	Syracuse University Press
Publication date:	09/03/2010
Series:	Irish Studies
Pages:	204
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.50(h) x 0.51(d)

About the Author

Sanford Sternlicht is professor of English at Syracuse University, where he teaches Irish, American, and British drama. He is the author of numerous books including A Reader's Guide to Modern American Drama and A Reader's Guide to Modern British Drama; he is also the editor of The Selected Plays of Padraic Colum, coeditor with Christopher Fitz-Simon of New Plays from the Abbey Theatre, Volume One, and coeditor with Judy Friel of New Plays from the Abbey Theatre, Volumes Two and Three, all published by Syracuse University Press.

Editorial Reviews

Modern Irish Drama provides essential information on the newest and most innovative dramatists in Ireland and it does so with new critical insight.

author of The Life of the Neighborhood Playhouse o John P. Harrington

Achieves what heretofore seemed unachievable, making sense for the non-Irish reader of the convolutions and contradictions of Irish drama that mirror the history and life of the country.

author of The Irish Theatre Christopher Fitz-Simon

This is a wonderful read and a wonderful ride.

Patrick Sutton

The book is authoritative, lucid, and accessible . . . . It is indispensable for students and a valuable addition to the libraries of those already familiar with Ireland and its theatre.

Fergal Tobin