International Journal of Communication, Languages & Literature
Online ISSN : 2581-3625
Frequency : Half Yearly
Current Issue : Volume 7 , Issue 1
2024
Dr. Suresh Frederick
Dr. Suresh Frederick
Associate Professor & UG Head, Department of English, Bishop Heber College,
(Affiliated to Bharthidasan University), Tiruchirappalli – 620 017. Tamil Nadu.
DOI : https://doi.org/10.53882/IJCLL.2024.0701002 Page No : 08-23
Published Online : 2024-06-30
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J.M. Synge’s The Playboy of the Western World has consistently sparked controversy and debate due to its depiction of violence and brutality. This article delves into the multifaceted nature of violence within the play, exploring the complex interplay between individual agency, societal constraints, and the historical context of colonial Ireland. While some interpretations suggest that the play glorifies violence through its portrayal of Christy Mahon’s parricide and subsequent rise to fame, this analysis argues for a more nuanced understanding. By examining the community’s response to Christy’s act, the article highlights the societal norms and expectations that enable and even encourage violent behaviour. Furthermore, the play’s exploration of the transformative power of art and the ways in which language can shape and mythologize violent acts adds another layer of complexity to the interpretation of violence in the play. Ultimately, The Playboy of the Western World challenges audiences to confront the complex social, cultural, and political forces that shape individual and societal attitudes toward violence, resisting simplistic interpretations and prompting critical reflection on the nature of heroism, masculinity, and the legacy of colonialism.
Key words: J.M. Synge, Playboy of the Western World, Violence, societal norms
Int. J. of Comm, Lang & Litt