Three Plays   By: Padraic Colum (1881-1972)

Three Plays by Padraic Colum is a captivating collection that illuminates the brilliance of the playwright's literary prowess. The book consists of three thought-provoking plays that explore complex themes and exhibit Colum's exceptional storytelling abilities.

In the first play, Colum masterfully transports readers into the enchanting world of ancient Ireland with "The Land," a tale rooted in folklore and mythology. Through vivid descriptions and remarkable character development, Colum effortlessly paints a vivid picture of the mystical land and its inhabitants. The play delves deep into the Irish psyche, presenting the eternal struggle between tradition and progress, as well as the resilience of the human spirit. Colum's poetic language and evocative imagery immerse readers in a world both familiar and otherworldly.

The second play, "The Fiddler's House," takes a completely different tone and setting, marking Colum's ability to tackle diverse subject matters. Set in a small Irish village, the play centers around the titular fiddler, whose music and presence bring solace and joy to the townspeople. Colum explores themes of community, the power of art, and the redemptive nature of music. The dialogue is imbued with colloquialisms and Irish wit, adding authenticity and charm to the narrative. The characters, each with their unique quirks and aspirations, come to life through Colum's skillful writing.

Lastly, "The Saxon Shillin'," the final play in the collection, demonstrates Colum's versatility and keen observation of human behavior. Set during the Great Famine, it depicts the struggle of ordinary Irish peasants and their fight against oppressive regimes. Colum delves into the complexities of political power, imperialism, and social inequality. Through the lens of seemingly ordinary characters, he sheds light on the resilience and strength of the Irish people, as well as their enduring spirit in the face of adversity.

What sets Three Plays apart is Colum's ability to seamlessly blend history, mythology, and human experience. Each play offers a rich exploration of societal issues and cultural nuances, all elegantly woven into captivating narratives. Furthermore, Colum's poetic language and lyrical prose elevate the reading experience, immersing readers in the beauty and power of his storytelling.

While some readers may find the language and themes challenging, Three Plays remains a rewarding and intellectually stimulating read. It showcases Padraic Colum's remarkable talent as a playwright and his profound understanding of human nature. Whether you are drawn to mythology, history, or simply appreciate a well-crafted narrative, Three Plays by Padraic Colum is an essential addition to any literary collection.

First Page:

These plays were conceived in the early days of the Irish National Theatre. I had been one of the group that formed the National Theatre Society and I wrote plays for players who were my colleagues and my instructors; I wrote them for a small, barely furnished stage in a small theatre; I wrote them, too, for an audience that was tremendously interested in every expression of national character. "The Land" was written to celebrate the redemption of the soil of Ireland an event made possible by the Land Act of 1903. This event, as it represented the passing of Irish acres from an alien landlordism, was considered to be of national importance. "The Land" also dealt with a movement that ran counter to the rooting of the Celtic people in the soil emigration the emigration to America of the young and the fit. In "The Land" I tried to show that it was not altogether an economic necessity that was driving young men and women out of the Irish rural districts; the lack of life and the lack of freedom there had much to do with emigration... Continue reading book >>