Rathlin (Leaving Cert English): Quizzes
📚Quizzes
Practise the questions
12 questions from this quiz
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Practise the questions
12 questions from this quiz
What is the opening line of 'Rathlin Island' by Derek Mahon?
What is the opening line of 'Rathlin Island' by Derek Mahon?
A long time since the last scream
What does 'oneiric species' mean in the poem?
What does 'oneiric species' mean in the poem?
Dream-like creatures
Which theme explores how past events continue to affect the present on Rathlin Island?
Which theme explores how past events continue to affect the present on Rathlin Island?
The persistence of history
What gradually breaks the natural silence on the island?
What gradually breaks the natural silence on the island?
Shearwater & crickets
Which stylistic device is used in 'Bombs doze in the housing estates'?
Which stylistic device is used in 'Bombs doze in the housing estates'?
Personification
Who is Somhairle Buí in the poem's historical context?
Who is Somhairle Buí in the poem's historical context?
A figure who heard the women's screams
What does the 'lone light' symbolise in the poem?
What does the 'lone light' symbolise in the poem?
Hope, guidance & continuity
What does 'spray-blind' convey in the poem's conclusion?
What does 'spray-blind' convey in the poem's conclusion?
Lack of clarity & direction
Which technique contrasts 'cerulean distance' with 'bombs doze in the housing estates'?
Which technique contrasts 'cerulean distance' with 'bombs doze in the housing estates'?
Juxtaposition
What is Rathlin Island described as in its present state?
What is Rathlin Island described as in its present state?
A sanctuary where wildlife thrives
Which phrase is repeated to emphasise the lasting impact of past events?
Which phrase is repeated to emphasise the lasting impact of past events?
A long time since
What theme is reflected in the final lines about whether 'the future lies before us or behind'?
What theme is reflected in the final lines about whether 'the future lies before us or behind'?
Uncertainty of the future