EVENT: Greek Tragedy in Ireland: A Blueprint for Cyprus?
by
Dr Dimitris Kentrotis-Zinelis
Leiden University
Wednesday, September 25, in person and on zoom
Department of English Studies, University of Cyprus
Abstract:
Although at first glance Cyprus and Ireland may seem culturally and geographically remote, the two islands exhibit some intriguing political parallels. Specifically, the Troubles in Northern Ireland (1968–1998) encompassed many of the complexities familiar to Cyprus: partition, questions of political legitimacy, paramilitary groups, border divisions, and ethnoreligious strife between antagonistic communities.
The shared historical and political context between Ireland and Cyprus could explain why exploring Irish literature, particularly works addressing the Troubles, might resonate within a Cypriot framework. In my talk, I will illustrate this by focusing on two well-known Irish authors: Tom Paulin and Seamus Heaney. Specifically, I will discuss two of their theatrical plays, both based on Greek tragedy. Paulin’s The Riot Act (1984) is an adaptation of Sophocles’ Antigone, while Heaney’s The Cure at Troy (1990) is an adaptation based on Sophocles’ Philoctetes.
In my address, I will elaborate on how the two Irishmen use the narratives of Philoctetes and Antigone as mythic parallels to the sectarian conflict unfolding in Northern Ireland. In the hands of the two Irish playwrights, the mythical examples of Antigone’s defiance of the laws of the city and Philoctetes’ refusal to cooperate with the Greek army become powerful metaphors and sources of commentary on the violent stalemate existing in their country. Overall, I will pinpoint how the Irish reception of Greek tragedy in Ireland could offer valuable insights to the deadlock in Cyprus by providing a framework for understanding its own complex history of division, resistance, and the potential of resolution.
Venue:
Department of English Studies Conference Room
9 Klimentos Str. (2nd floor, Eliades Building), 1061 Nicosia
Department of English Studies, University of Cyprus