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THE PLAYBOY OF THE WESTERN WORLD — J.M - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2020
Question 1
THE PLAYBOY OF THE WESTERN WORLD — J.M. Synge Answer all of the questions. (a) Identify and describe a relationship between two characters in Synge’s play, The Pla... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:THE PLAYBOY OF THE WESTERN WORLD — J.M - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2020
Step 1
Identify and describe a relationship between two characters in Synge’s play, The Playboy of the Western World, in which conflict or tension is evident.
Answer
In J.M. Synge's play, a significant relationship is that between Christy Mahon and Pegeen Mike. Their relationship is characterized by a tumultuous mixture of attraction and power dynamics. Christy, initially perceived as a coward, gains confidence through Pegeen’s interest in him, which creates both romantic tension and conflict. Pegeen’s initial fascination transforms as she grapples with her community's expectations versus her feelings for Christy, highlighting the conflict between individuality and societal conventions.
Step 2
Identify an episode or incident from the text which demonstrates the conflict or tension that arises in this relationship, and explain why you think this episode or incident is a good choice to demonstrate this aspect of the relationship.
Answer
A pivotal episode occurs when Christy boasts about killing his father, which intrigues Pegeen but also draws the ire of the townsfolk. This incident showcases the tension in their relationship as Pegeen is drawn to Christy’s newfound bravado. Yet, it also illustrates the conflict between her romantic ideals and the grim realities of Christy's situation. It’s an excellent demonstration of how societal judgments affect personal relationships and individual identities.
Step 3
Explain whether, in your opinion, the conflict or tension in the relationship you identified above was or was not successfully resolved. Support your answer with reference to the text.
Answer
In my opinion, the conflict in Christy and Pegeen’s relationship is not successfully resolved. Despite Christy's initial glory, the climax reveals his true nature and the façade he maintained. Pegeen's disillusionment peaks when Christy’s cowardice resurfaces, highlighting the inevitable conflict between romanticized ideals and harsh realities. The resolution leaves her frustrated, emphasizing the play's critique of human relationships constrained by societal expectations.
Step 4
Explain three valuable lessons you learned about human nature from your study of Synge’s play, The Playboy of the Western World. Support your answer with reference to the text.
Answer
Three valuable lessons about human nature can be drawn from Synge’s work. Firstly, the play illustrates the fluid nature of identity, as seen in Christy’s transformation from a timid figure to a heroic one based on Pegeen's perception. Secondly, it emphasizes the impact of societal expectations on individual desires, demonstrated by Pegeen's struggle between her attraction to Christy and her community’s judgment. Lastly, the play reveals the complexity of human relationships, navigating love, deceit, and personal ambition, especially in Pegeen's conflicting emotions towards Christy.