Selected Writings (Penguin Twentieth Century Classics)

Rating:
Summary: Lady Augusta Gregory comes to life!
Review: This book is a delightful introduction to literary works of a very important lady in the history of not only Irish literature; but of the history of Ireland itself. One gets a wonderful sense of this lady's talent and dedication to the cause of creating a lasting body of uniquely Irish Literature that instilled a sense of National pride in the heritage of a group of people that was truly Irish. Lady Augusta Gregory, in collaboration with other influential writers such a William Butler Yeats, was very influential in the development of the Abbey Theater in Dublin that contributed to the revival of the Irish literary movement.

The book, after a brief autobiography of Lady Gregory, introduces the reader to her Irish folklore translations both in English and translations from the Irish. Her most popular plays are presented including "Kathleen ni Houlihan" and "The Rising of the Moon". Also included are some of her most influential essays on Irish culture. Lady Gregory also wrote poetry and included are "A women's Sonnets" and "Alas! A woman may not love!". There is a section from her journals that gives a very personal insight to Lady Gregory's thoughts and activities during her most creative years.

The works selected for inclusion in this book share a common thread. Namely that they capture the essence and simplicity of Irish country life at the turn of the twentieth century. It is a charming collection of writings of that time period, and the book helps reveal the character and talent of a singularly important lady in Irish history.