Defiance of "Magdalenes". Female challenges in recent Irish fiction

Abstract

Nicoleta Stanca‘s latest work, Defiance of “Magdalenes.” Female Challenges in Recent Irish Fiction explores the female characters in a range of novels by more contemporary Irish writers. Of course, the Ireland of today is very different from the State in its infancy. We like to think of ourselves as modern, liberal, outward looking, welcoming difference. We value our writers and artists because of the insights they bring to our lives – not just to reflect society. The novels that are considered here, by William Trevor, John Banville, Anne Enright, Sebastian Barry and Colm Tóibín while coming from a particularly Irish place, have universal appeal and contribute hugely to our understanding of ourselves. As a reflection of the high esteem that Irish writers are held in today, the Arts Council created the role of Laureate for Irish Fiction. This was to acknowledge the contribution of fiction writers to Irish artistic and cultural life by honouring an established Irish writer of fiction; encouraging a new generation of writers; promoting Irish literature nationally and internationally; and encouraging the public to engage with high quality Irish fiction. Each Laureate continues their work as a creative artist. In addition, over the course of their term, they spend a semester at University College Dublin and one at New York University and while in residence, they teach creative writing. They also deliver an annual lecture and engage in major public events. The Laureateship is designed so that the Laureate can shape the role allowing the individual artist to be at the heart of the project. Anne Enright, Sebastian Barry and Colm Tóibín are recent Laureates and each has occupied the role with distinction and each has made their own, unique contribution.(...)Paul McGarry,Ambassador of Ireland to Romania