Writers and Protestantism in the North of Ireland: Heirs to Adamnation

by Barry Sloan

Overview

How did Protestantism influence the subject matter and vision of twentieth century writers from the north of Ireland? Was it a merely negative, inhibiting, backward-looking and self-defensive force within the community, as some observers have claimed? Theologically, politically and culturally, was it ever a source of creative energy and a stimulus to the literary imagination? These are some of the questions this book confronts in a new and wide ranging examination of the relationship between northern Irish Protestantism and writing.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780716526360
Publisher:	Irish Academic Press
Publication date:	08/17/2000
Pages:	280
Product dimensions:	6.25(w) x 9.25(h) x 1.40(d)

Editorial Reviews

Examining the relationship between literature and Protestantism in Northern Ireland, the book begins by presenting the theological and historical contexts for the development of Protestantism in Ulster and considers its effect on the culture of the province. Special attention is given to the influence of the Presbyterian Church, and to the significance of its move away from radical dissent in the face of Home Rule politics. The consequences of this move for 20th century Protestants is discussed, with reference to literary, political, theological, and critical sources. Separate chapters discuss the poetry of Rodgers, Hewitt, MacNeice, Mahon, and Paulin. Other chapters address representations of the Protestant experience in fiction and drama. Sloan teaches English at the University of Southampton New College. Distributed by ISBS. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

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