Screening Contemporary Irish Fiction and Drama

This book explores Irish texts in their literary, cultural, and historical contexts, addressing popular and important works that have impacted cinema and literature. It highlights the growth of contemporary Irish cinema, which is closely tied to the project of understanding and complicating a national identity that has undergone radical change.

Format: Hardback
Length: 278 pages
Publication date: 17 September 2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

In this comprehensive book, each chapter delves into significant Irish texts, examining their literary, cultural, and historical significance. The introduction provides a foundational framework that explores the diverse critical contexts surrounding Irish cinema, literature, and their adaptive textual realms. It addresses a selection of highly acclaimed and commercially successful works from the late 20th and early 21st centuries, which have left a lasting impact on the Irish and global cinema and literary landscapes.

Over the past three decades, Ireland has witnessed a remarkable surge in domestic film productions, serving as a chronicle of its ongoing struggle with self-identity, national consciousness, and cultural expression. The story of contemporary Irish cinema is, in many ways, a reflection of the young nation's growth pains and challenges. While Irish literature has long held a prominent position as the nation's foremost artistic achievement, it is undeniable that film has emerged as a key form of cultural expression in Ireland. The proliferation of successful screen adaptations of Irish fiction and drama demonstrates the intimate connection between contemporary Irish cinema and the project of understanding and complicating (or even challenging) a national identity that has undergone significant transformation over the past three decades.

This present volume is a groundbreaking effort, as it presents the first comprehensive account of the productive synergy that has seen a significant portion of contemporary Irish literature translated into film. It explores the processes, challenges, and opportunities involved in adapting literary works for the screen, highlighting the unique artistic choices and creative adaptations made by filmmakers. Through a diverse range of case studies, the book sheds light on the ways in which Irish cinema has contributed to the broader cultural dialogue, both within Ireland and internationally.

In conclusion, this book offers a valuable exploration of the complex relationship between Irish cinema, literature, and their shared cultural heritage. It provides a comprehensive and insightful perspective on the dynamic interplay between these artistic mediums, highlighting their contributions to the development of Irish identity and the broader global cultural landscape. By examining the rich tapestry of Irish texts and their cinematic adaptations, readers will gain a deeper understanding of the enduring power of storytelling and the transformative impact of cultural expression.

Weight: 508g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031045677
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022